Songs of Faith

NO COWBOY LEFT BEHIND

2012-01-09T09:51:00.001-08:00

Howdy folks,

Cowboy churches are one of the fastest growing non-traditional church groups in North America. As a result, according to cowboy church planters and pastors one of the things that is desperately needed is material for discipling new believers. NO COWBOY LEFT BEHIND was written in response to this need. It is not your typical discipleship book. Unlike the many books on the subject of discipleship that have been written, this book is western-themed and sensitive to the cowboy culture. In addition, it is written to meet the need for discipleship training material among cowboy churches.

NO COWBOY LEFT BEHIND is designed to provide the new believer with a practical and immediately usable resource for growing their faith. It has a simple goal: to encourage them to establish habits that will have a positive impact upon their spiritual life. These include: spending time with God in prayer; reading and studying your Bible; fellowshipping and worshiping with other believers; and, sharing your faith with others. Although many new believers, in their own way, will have tried to do many of things put forward in this book, they may also have felt from time to time that they would like to have a better handle on how to reach spiritual maturity in Christ. If so, this book was written for them.

Even though NO COWBOY LEFT BEHIND was intended for individual study, my prayer is that it will also be a useful handbook for the mature Christian who wants to disciple other believers, as well as a discipleship training manual for cowboy churches. In any case, all readers will find that it is not a book to be read and reacted to but, rather, a resource document to be absorbed and applied.

The book should be available early this Spring. In the meantime, if you have any questions you can contact me at mgburn@shaw.ca.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

RIDE TO THE WHISTLE

2011-06-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it (1 Corinthians 9:24).”

In the Bible an athletic contest is often used as an illustration for the Christian life. Most often it is portrayed as race. Runners train with self-discipline so that they can compete with staying power. Likewise, cowboys and cowgirls, who compete in rodeo rough stock and timed events, train hard to be the best in their sport. No matter the personal sacrifice or physical pain that must be overcome, their goal is to have the best time, or ride to the whistle and, in so doing, win the coveted prize for their event.

Once on the trail, you’ll need the same self-discipline to continue growing spiritually and living victoriously. You must be willing to chuck everything that will trip you up. Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run, with endurance the race that is set before us.” Remember, that you make it to the short-go, not by how well you perform, but by how well you let Christ perform through you. 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

For the faithful servant, there’s a trophy buckle when you finish the work God has called you to do. Philippians 3:14 says, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Just as every successful athlete keeps looking toward the goal, so you must keep looking to Jesus. The real test of the Christian life as in an athletic contest is steady progress, not spasms of effort or emotion, toward the goal to win the prize.

O I want to be like Jesus
As I walk along this pilgrim way;
O I want to live like Jesus,
Showing forth His beauty ev’ry day.
This my prayer and deepest longing ---
To be pure without, within;
O I want to be like Jesus,
Cleansed from dross and free from self and sin. ---Peterson

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

YOUR SIDEKICK

2011-06-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God (1 Corinthians 2:12).”

One of the most serious problems facing the plains pioneer was that of obtaining an adequate supply of water. Without such a supply, he couldn’t exist. Those who lived in the valleys along streams were fortunate as they could get water from springs or from the streams themselves. The mechanical windmill, therefore, was crucial to settling the West. They permitted ranchers and farmers to bring water up from deep below the surface and, thereby, live and work on land where there was no reliable water supply.

By using the wind power readily available to them, ranchers and farmers were able to get the water they needed. By using the power of the Holy Spirit available to us as Christians we have the ability to live as we should and as God intended. One of the most profound and noteworthy promises Jesus made during His earthly ministry was His promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit. Before He left them, Jesus promised His disciples that God would send the Holy Spirit to guide them in their lives. John 14:26 says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things I have said.” His last commandment was for them to wait in Jerusalem until that promise was fulfilled. Acts 2:1-4 is the account of the disciples receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Since that day, when people believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and are saved, they receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who will be their sidekick forever.

When you are saved, the Holy Spirit lives within you and gives you a “new nature,” which is the nature of God. This new nature helps you to understand spiritual things because the Holy Spirit is riding with you. Knowing this should be of great comfort. God is always with you and no matter what comes your way you’ll know that God, working through the Holy Spirit, will guide you through it.

Holy Spirit, faithful Guide,
Ever near the Christian’s side,
Gently lead us by the hand,
Pilgrims in a desert land;
Weary souls fore’er rejoice,
While they hear that sweetest voice
Whispering softly, “Wand’rer come!
Follow Me, I’ll guide you home.” ---Wells

On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann

THE LEAST OF THESE

2011-06-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

And the King will answer and say to them, “Assuredly, I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one the least of these My brethren you did it to Me (Matthew 25:40).”

Over the years, as a cowboy gospel ministry, we’ve been asked to minister in many non-traditional venues (barns, rodeo grounds, saloon patios, dance halls, outdoor stages, hotels, etc.); however, our audiences have usually been folks who love the western way of life and enjoy our cowboy style of ministry. Consequently, we expected to find a friendly and receptive audience wherever we were asked to minister.

All that changed several years ago. Our last stop on the Songs of Faith Ministries tour was supposed to be at a church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It so happened, however, that the pastor had double booked on that particular Sunday morning and he asked if we would mind taking the service at the Union Gospel Mission in downtown Winnipeg. I still remember his words: “There’s about 120 homeless people who attend the service and they will love your cowboy gospel music.” After agreeing to his request, I realized that this was going to be out of our comfort zone and began to worry about our safety and how are ministry would really be received,

When we arrived at the Mission on Sunday morning, we found it was exactly as the pastor had described. As I looked around, I could see the despair on their faces that comes from living on the street. In spite of my original misgivings, the Lord really blessed our ministry. From their smiles as they sang along, you could see that the old hymns and gospel songs touched many hearts.

I learned a valuable lesson that morning. We can’t always expect to minister in our comfort zone. When you tell God you’ll preach His Word, you don’t get to choose the place or the audience, He does! I’m reminded of Jesus’ words: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick (Matthew 9:12).”

So send I you to blind the bruised and broken,
O’er wand’ring souls to work, to weep, to wake.
To bear the burdens of a world aweary
So send I you to suffer for My sake. ---Clarkson

On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann

UP THE TRAIL

2011-05-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

The moment you trusted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, you started up the trail on lifelong spiritual journey. When you ride for the brand, God directs your life. With each new trail day, God will build upon the work of the past with a view toward work in the future. As you go up the trail, He will not lead you down a blind trail or have you follow a cold trail. You can be sure He has an orderly plan in place and a divine purpose in mind for your life. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).” Spiritual growth does not just happen. It develops as God matures you in your relationship with Him.

The process of growing spiritually, often referred to in the Bible as walking with God, occurs one step at a time. Colossians 2:6 says, “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him.” God has not promised you that your trail days will be easy; rather, that He will be with you each step of the way. Psalm 23:4 says, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me: Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” What a comfort to know that God will always stand by His trail hands.

As you go up the trail, you will leave trail markers along your back-trail. These are milestones or benchmarks in your Christian experience that will let you see how God has been faithfully working in your life. Over time, a review of these trail markers will serve to confirm His on-going presence, as well as how He has guided you. Take a-hold of what you have been taught. “Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our guide (2 Thessalonians 2:15).” They will also be a ready source of comfort and encouragement as you put into practice the spiritual truths you have learned. Every trail marker on your back-trail is a testimonial to your growth in understanding God’s ways and to your trust in Him. As you go up the trail, you can be sure that God will lead you step by step. He has many truths for you to discover and you have a lot more growing to do.

More like the Master I would live and grow;
More of His love to others I would show;
More self-denial, like His in Galilee,
More like the Master I long to ever be. ---Gabriel

DELIVER THE MESSAGE

2011-05-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

George Sweeting, in his book The No-Guilt Guide for Witnessing, tells of a man by the name of John Currier who in 1949 was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Later he was transferred and paroled to work on a farm near Nashville, Tennessee. In 1968, Currier’s sentence was terminated and a letter bearing the good news was sent to him. But John never saw the letter, nor was he told anything about it. Ten years went by. Then a state parole officer learned about Currier’s plight, found him, and told him that his sentence had been terminated. He had been a free man all those years.

How would you feel if, like John Currier, someone sent you an important message and year after year is was never delivered? For those of us who have heard the good news and experienced freedom through Christ, the story of John Currier is a reminder of our responsibility to share the love and forgiveness Jesus has given us with those who have never received Him as their Savior and Lord. Romans 10:13-14 says, “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Lost men, women and children are waiting for someone to tell them the most important message they will ever hear in their life and the message is never delivered.

Are we doing all we can to make sure that people get the message? Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” As you remember what life was like for you without Christ, the love of Jesus Christ for you, and your love for Him, should compel you to share Him with others. Ask yourself, “If everybody did as much as I am doing to reach the lost, how many people would be coming to know Christ?” This is a hard question, but each of us must evaluate what we are doing to reach the world for Christ. If you really believe that unless a person has a born again, personal relationship with Christ, they are on the way to hell, there is an urgency about delivering the message.

We have heard the joyful sound; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land, Climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! – ‘tis our Lord’s command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves! ---Owens

On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann

GET TUIT

2011-05-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

The other day I decided to clean out my desk drawer. Actually, my wife told me it was time to get rid of some of my junk. When I opened the drawer, I found the usual collection of pens, pencils and paper clips, along with a few elastic bands, and colored push pins. My desk drawer is also the repository for all the treasures that I have collected during our ministry tours -- church bulletins, programs from cowboy poetry gatherings, business cards and a variety of lapel pins. Among this collection of memorabilia was a small wooden disc that had TUIT printed on the face side. The message was clear. Just like cleaning out a desk drawer, nothing will get done unless we get “to it!” The writer of Hebrews puts it this way, “let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run, with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Many Christians, however, find it easier or, perhaps, more comfortable to procrastinate when it comes to getting TUIT. We drag our feet when it comes to reading and studying the Bible, talking to God, sharing our faith with a neighbor or friend, teaching Sunday school, helping with vacation Bible school, or leading a small group. It’s not that we don’t want to do these things or feel they are important; it’s just that we never seem to get TUIT. The Gospel of Matthew records that when Jesus encountered Peter and Andrew by the Sea of Galilee, they were busy fishing. But, when He said to them, “Follow Me,” the Bible says, “They immediately left their nets and followed Him (4:20).” Likewise, the brothers James and John, who were busy mending their nets, immediately left their boat and their father to follow Him (4:22). Folks, they just got TUIT!

Over the years, it has been my observation that you can always count on a dedicated few when it comes to doing Kingdom work. No matter their age, experience, or circumstance they are ready to answer the call to serve. What about you? Are you ready to get TUIT? You can’t be a spectator ridin’ the fence and watchin’ others ride broncs in the main corral.

To the work! To the work! Let the hungry be fed;
To the fountain of life let the weary be led;
In the cross and its banner our glory shall be,
While we herald the tidings, “Salvation is free!” ---Crosby

On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann

MR. FACING-BOTH-WAYS

2011-05-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

In his famous Christian allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan provides a riveting account of Christian’s pilgrimage from earth to heaven. Now, if you’ve ever read The Pilgrim’s Progress, you may remember being introduced to Mr. Facing-Both-Ways who attempts the difficult task of facing in both directions at the same time. Many Christians, like Mr. Facing-Both-Ways, have set themselves an impossible task. They want some of Christ and some of the world. They are trying to face both ways.

Let me elaborate further. George Barna, a Christian researcher in the U.S., has identified a significant group of individuals in Evangelical churches today that he labeled “notional Christians.” According to Barna, at least 39% of the church population may fall into this category. While these individuals may in fact be saved, their own ideas and opinions and not the Word of God shape their Christian experience. They want Christ in their life but are not willing to live in obedience to Him. They want to face both ways.

Folks, I believe Jesus admonished believers against this destructive behavior. In Luke 6:46 He says, “But why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and not do the things which I say?” It raises the question: “Can you follow Him and not do the things He says?” The question is equivalent to a positive declaration In other words; you cannot call me Lord if you do not do the things I say. Such words as these make it very clear that Jesus intended to be taken seriously. His words continue to echo through the ages to all those who claim to be His true followers. There is going to be a sad day of disillusionment for those Christians who make a glib profession of His Name. Profession of faith is one thing but what identifies a true follower of Jesus is really doing the will of God. As James cautions believers, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourself (James 1:22).” We need to continue doing what Jesus says over and over again, until it becomes our everyday practice. This is the only way we will become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian.

O Jesus, Thou hast promised to all who follow Thee,
That where Thou art in glory, there shall Thy servant be;
And, Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow, my Master and my Friend. ---Bode

On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann

AN ENDANGERED SPECIES

2011-04-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

Right off the top let me tell you that I’m old-fashioned! I still read and carry my King James Version of the Bible, listen to and sing the old hymns, and enjoy an old-fashioned, no frills gospel sermon. As a preacher, I have long been fascinated with the style and sermons of the preachers of yesterday. Because they used vivid descriptions of judgment and eternal damnation to encourage repentance, they were often called “fire and brimstone preachers.” Perhaps the best known of these preachers was Jonathan Edwards, who preached during the Great Awakening of the 1730’s and 40’s. It is reported that on one occasion after he preached his sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” audience members burst out weeping, cried in anguish or even fainted.

Folks, Peter would have been called a fire and brimstone preacher. On the day of Pentecost, He delivered a powerful message to the people who were drawn to the Temple by all the commotion. Cut to the heart by Peter’s message that Jesus whom they crucified was both Lord and Christ, some 3,000 people turned to the Lord (Acts 2:41). Again Peter preached to a crowd who had gathered to witness a healed cripple walking, leaping, and praising God. In response to his message that God had sent Jesus to save them from their sins, about 5,000 who heard his words believed (Acts 4:4).

How different is that from today? For the most part, “fire and brimstone preachers” are an endangered species. After the sermon people politely arise from their padded pews, exchange some pleasantries with their friends and, compliment their preacher for the beautiful uplifting lesson that he has so eloquently delivered. Paul exhorts the young preacher Timothy to preach the Word! “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside by fables (2 Timothy 4:3-4).” An old-fashioned, no-frills Gospel sermon that accurately reflects the Word of God is more powerful by far than any sermon intended to advance our thinking or lead us to new truth. So I’m gonna stay old-fashioned.

Twas an old-fashioned meeting in an old-fashioned place,
Where some old-fashioned people had some old-fashioned grace;
As an old-fashioned sinner I began to pray,
And God heard me and saved me in the old-fashioned way. ---Buffum

On the trail for Him,
Mike and Suzann

THE REJECTED CORNERSTONE

2011-04-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

In ancient times, the cornerstone referred to the foundation stone, the first placed, which was secure and set the angles for the rest of the building. It was the visible corner of the foundation of the building and the starting point of all future building above the foundation. It was also the largest and most costly stone because of its beauty and strength, as well as the most solid and carefully constructed stone. The cornerstone was the place where the building was joined and also supported the major portion of the superstructure. To cast aside the cornerstone would be to resist any future building on that foundation.

The metaphor of a cornerstone as a foundation is found in Isaiah 28:16 in reference to the person and work of the Messianic Redeemer: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.” In the New Testament, Peter uses the metaphor of the cornerstone to refer to Jesus. In 1 Peter 2:7 we read, “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” Given the context in which this verse is found, I believe Peter was elaborating on Jesus as the foundation upon which God has promised to build the church. “For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Christ Jesus (1 Corinthians 3:11).” By comparing believers to “living stones” and placing them in relationship to the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5), Peter has completed the metaphor. First, we rest on Christ as a building rests on its foundation. Second, we relate to every other believer as the stones of a building under construction relate to one another. The meaning is clear we need each other, should support each other, and must work together to build the church in the world.

However, there is another contemporary lesson to be learned. Like the cornerstone that was rejected by the builders, many will not repent of their sins and accept the complete lordship of Jesus Christ in their lives. What they fail to realize is that this offer is the only choice they have that will give them genuine salvation from their sins. Rejection of Jesus Christ does not make us free from God’s judgment and punishment. As surely as those who choose God will receive eternal life, so those who reject Him will be judged to destruction. Both are guaranteed to receive the consequences of their choices.

The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord;
She is His new creation by water and the word:
From Heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died. ----Stone

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

THE GOOD NEWS OF DELIVERANCE

2011-04-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

“Prophecy is a very difficult art,” said Niels Bohr, the physicist, “especially when it involves the future.” Consider the following classic prophetic statements: an official of the White Star Line, speaking of the firm’s newly built flagship, the Titanic, launched in 1912, declared the ship was unsinkable; then there was Thomas J. Watson, Chairman of the Board of IBM who said in 1943: “I think there is a world market for about five computers;” and, finally, my personal favorite was a recording company expert who said in 1962: “We don’t think the Beatles will do anything in the market. Guitar groups are on their way out.”

When considering Bible prophecy, however, we need to understand that it isn’t like God looking into a crystal ball and writing down what He thinks will happen. It is all about God having a definite plan at the beginning, and bringing about events that will take place throughout time that will eventually bring His purpose to pass. The underlying message of Bible prophecy, therefore, is that God is in charge of history and that it moves to His end from the beginning.

The prophet Isaiah, approximately three thousand years ago, prophesied that the Man of sorrow would be wounded and dies for our sins that we might be saved from the wrath to come (Isaiah chapter 53). About one thousand years after Isaiah’s prophecy, an angel messenger appeared to a young virgin and declared she would have a Son and would call His name Jesus (Luke 1:31), which means “Jehovah our Savior.” This name reminds us of the purpose of His birth. He was the Man of sorrow who “bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness --- by whose stripes you were healed (1 Peter 2:24).” Thus, in fulfillment of His eternal plan, a loving Father sent his Son into the world to save us from our sins (John 3:17).

So you see, the birth and death of Jesus was not an afterthought. God had announced His plan and purpose beforehand. The good news of deliverance is that Jesus has ransomed us from the penalty of our sins. When you received Christ as your personal Savior you began an eternal relationship with God that will last throughout eternity.

“Man of sorrow,” what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! What a Savior. ----Bliss

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR JESUS LATELY?

2011-04-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

Easter is a time of reflection, when Christians worldwide focus on the finished work of Jesus on the Cross. I can only imagine the Savior bearing the burden of our sins in His own body as He hung on the cross (1 Peter 2:24) or, the crowds passing by that blasphemed Him. But, on that fateful day that Jesus was crucified, there were people who ministered to Him, who helped Him when the entire world had turned against Him.

Do you remember the man called Simon of Cyrene who carried the cross for Him? I know he was forced to do it, but when he saw the blood stained figure of Jesus, don’t you think that some pity stirred in his heart? When Jesus fell beneath the load, Simon carried the cross for Him. Then there was the Roman soldier who moistened Jesus lips when He moaned; “I thirst.” Think of the day of the crucifixion: the heat, the noise, the dust, the pain and, the thirst. Here was an act of pity in the midst of hate.

There was also a small group of His dear ones and friends who stood near the cross. His mother, John, and other holy women who had followed Jesus from Galilee stood by while He was dying. Crucifixion was a very shameful thing. To see Jesus hung on a cross, naked, in the gaze of multitudes of people who passed by must have been hard to bear. Yet, there they stood at the foot of the Cross sharing His shame and ministering to Jesus as He died. And friend, do you ever think of the penitent thief? As he hung on a cross beside Jesus he confessed his sins and trusted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Even in His agony, Jesus demonstrated the power of the Cross. “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise (Luke 23:43).” Isn’t it amazing that the last kind words spoken to Jesus were by a thief?

So you see not everyone came to Calvary to abuse, deride, and assail Jesus. There were those whose undying distinction is that they ministered to Him by carrying the Cross, moistening His lips, sharing His shame and, proving the power of the Cross. Ask yourself what can I do and am I doing it? Friend, when you engage in Christ like service, if only a little, don’t be surprised at how God is able to use you.

The service of Jesus true pleasure affords,
In Him there is joy without an alloy;
‘Tis heaven to trust Him and rest on His words;
It pays to serve Jesus each day.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

ONLY ORDINARY PEOPLE NEED APPLY

2011-04-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

An advertisement in a California newspaper in 1860 read: “Wanted young, skinny, wiry fellows. Not over 18, must be expert riders. Willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred.” Incredibly, 183 men, some as young as 11 years, were hired to ride for the pony express during its operation of just over 18 months. This advertisement in a London newspaper for a polar expedition in 1894 brought 5,000 applications. “Men wanted, low wages. Bitter cold. Long months in darkness. Under constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition if successful.” I wonder what the advertisers expected to achieve with this type of advertisement and, more to the point, why did these advertisements even attract any applicants?

Here is an advertisement that might have appeared in the “Capernaum Times” in 29 A.D. “Wanted ordinary people. Severe hardship. Expect to be arrested and whipped. Opposed by everyone. Constant public ridicule and slander. Violent death likely. Willing to persevere to the end.” As you have probably guessed this is not a real advertisement and, to the best of my knowledge, there was no “Capernaum Times” But this is what Jesus said to the twelve as He sent them forth to minister in His name (Matthew 10:16-22). I see Jesus gathering His disciples around Him to brief them before they left on their mission trip. He told them to expect hardships and persecution, but through it all they should trust in God’s unfailing care of His own and keep their eyes fixed on the eternal goal. These men were non-professionals. They had no position or wealth. They were chosen not for who they were but for what they would become. This is a characteristic of God’s work. He chooses ordinary people.

I believe in this instance that Jesus was speaking beyond His immediate audience. The scope of this passage reaches beyond the personal ministry of the twelve. Dependence on God and rejection by men apply to the mission of the church today. Yet, for over 2,000 years, countless numbers of ordinary people have responded to the call, trusted in God for His provision and relied on His resources. Jesus came to die for our sins and to rise from the dead to give us eternal life. But His life, death, and resurrection would be in vain if the story was never told.

Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the Cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

GOD'S TRAIL TIPS

2011-03-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

If you type cowboy trail tips into your internet search engine, you’ll get a lot of “hits” with widely varying degrees of relevance. When sorting through them, you’ll find that they seem to fall into three categories. Some, fall into what I call the life application category. For example: “When you’re in the wrong and need to set it right, how far you’ve traveled in the doin’ of it has nothing to do with the rightin’ of it”; or, “See the heavens, smell the air, taste the dust and the alkali, hear the wind and the wild, feel the motion of your horse. On a good day, that’s all you need. On a bad day that’s all you need.” Others, such as “Buildin’ and fixin’ fences wouldn’t be so bad if you didn’t have to get off your horse to do em”; or, “Cowboyin’ would be a lot more pleasant if Noah had taken the time to swat a couple of mosquitoes on his ark” can be categorized as whimsical wisdom. Finally, there are those that carry some spiritual baggage. “Just like Jesus, a good horse know what he’s doin’ even when you don’t”; or, "You make it to the short go, not by how well you perform, but by how well you let Christ perform through you.”

Well folks, the other day, I was reading in Proverbs and it struck me that I was reading God’s trail trips for a Christian cowboy. A wealth of understanding and wisdom is cached in this book to guide us along the trail. Here is a few of God’s trail tips for the ride: “Do not strive with a man without cause. If he has done you no harm (3:30)”; “Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well (5:15)”; “Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you (9:8)”; “In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty (14:23)”; and, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps (16:9).”

I’m reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words to the young preacher Timothy: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16,17).” Without a doubt, from cover to cover, the Bible is chock full of God’s understanding, wisdom and trail tips for the Christian cowboy. Not only is it a good read, but also it will direct your ride along the trail.

On the Trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

A BOOK WORTH READING

2011-03-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks,

The Bible is unlike any other book that has ever been written, in that you must first know the author to understand its content. On the other hand, it is like other books in that to be understood it must be read and studied. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The picture here is of a workman who is careful and accurate in his work and stresses the nature of the task, rather than the skill needed to perform it. Because of the Holy Spirit’s tuition, believers who diligently study the Word of God will be able to understand the mind of God and things He has given them. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said (John 14:26).”

Folks, the Bible is the authorative, reliable and definitive handbook for true believers. Get into the habit of reading your Bible, ponder it, meditate on it, and study it. I think of the old time saints who came to the Word and meditated on it. They took their Bible and pondered what it said. They didn’t have the benefit of a concordance, commentaries or cross-references and notes on the pages of the Bible. Why, they didn’t even have the words attributed to Jesus printed in red. Yet, they knew their Bible better than any of us today. John Bunyan had about four years of schooling and only read the Bible. He knew his Scriptures so well that he was able to write the Pilgrim’s Progress while he was in prison. A.W. Tozer a prolific Christina author and pastor had no formal theological training. It is said that his preaching, as well as his writing was an extension of his prayer life and Scripture reading.

Today, however, Bible reading is no longer “in” and, for the most part, appears to have gone out of fashion. We have the problem of the relegation of the Bible to a mere book of history and tradition. In the popular mind, it is no longer a book of authority. As believers, we need to get back to the basics and dust off our Bibles. The Bible read, understood, believed, and obeyed means a life of joy and peace.

I still read my old Bible,
Like me, it’s shown’ wear,
Tho it ain’t new or modern,
The Words of God are there.

On the Trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

A FAITH WORTH SHARING

2011-03-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks,

If you are a Christian, sharing your faith is not an option. People without a born-again personal relationship with Jesus Christ are all around us, in our workplace, our neighborhood, our family, our home and, even in our church. These people are spiritually dead and without hope. Yet, there is an overwhelming tendency in the Christian community today to expect that someone else is going to tell them about Jesus – the pastor, a deacon, the Director of Evangelism, a Sunday School teacher or youth worker, anyone but me.

Now, let me ask you the hard question: How many of you have ever been the means by which someone came to know Jesus Christ? The fact is that less than 10% of Christians when asked that question can respond in the positive. Folks, this is serious business. If we really believe that a person without a born-again, personal relationship with Christ is on the way to hell, where is our sense of urgency? We seem to have forgotten our mission: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us (2 Corinthians 5:20a)". When we stand before a holy God, are we going to be humbled into the dust because we so pitifully failed to carry out the Great Commission?

Billy Fay, an internationally known leader in the field of personal evangelism encourages Christians to share their faith without fear through friendship evangelism. He says we need to get away from the “win them” mentality. Folks aren’t saved because we cleverly “manipulated” them to believe. Success according to Billy, is not leading someone to Christ but it is acting out your Christian life, sharing the Gospel, and trusting God for the results.

Are you ready to take up the challenge? We need to practice sharing our faith. Every moment of every day, we must be ready to share our faith with others. “That the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus (Philemon 6).” Only with practice will be become more consistent, confident, and competent as a Christian. Then in the words of the old hymn we’ll sing:

I love to tell the story,
‘Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it,
More wonderfully sweet;.
I love to tell the story,
For some have never heard
The message of salvation
From God’s own holy Word.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

TAKING TIME TO REST

2010-07-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

The trip from Cody to the Canadian border took two days. We fought a crosswind most of the way, which slowed us down. After few days in Regina visiting with friends, we drove to Moose Jaw for the services at Calvary Baptist Church. Pastor Butt had arranged the service so that we had time to present some special music and a cowboy poem. Folks in the church remembered us from our visit with Pat and Nadine Armstrong last spring. We enjoyed their fellowship and appreciated the opportunity to minister.

We arrived home late Monday night tired but thankful for the many blessings we received during the past six weeks. During the tour we conducted nine church services in addition to performing for two days at the Cowboy Entertainer Gathering in Townsend, MT. Our journey covered two states (Montana and Wyoming) and we drove 4,231 km (2,629 miles).

Since arriving back in Cochrane, we have unpacked the trailer and repaired the hail damage. For the next few weeks we will assess our tour and prayerfully consider where the Lord would have us go in the Fall. There are many small churches in Montana and Wyoming where our ministry would be well received.

While we will certainly enjoy our time at home, we will continue to seek the Lord’s will for our Fall tour. Your prayers on our behalf will be important to the success of our ministry.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

SMALL BUT FAITHFUL

2010-07-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

It doesn’t seem possible, but we have come to the end of this tour. New Hope Southern Baptist Church in Cody, WY was our last stop before we start our homeward journey. Pastor Larry and folks at New Hope gave us a warm welcome and let us set up the trailer in their parking lot. The church is located in a quiet residential area and we were quite comfortable.

To say that the church is small would be an understatement. It is a remodeled house with a small addition built to accommodate a Sunday school class. The sanctuary is only about 600 sq. ft and they can squeeze about 30 people inside. In the past several years, they have had few special events and the congregation has dwindled to only 12 members. Hopefully, we have been able to be a source of encouragement to these faithful few. They did their best to invite others to the service and we even got a write-up in the Cody Enterprise the newspaper founded by Buffalo Bill in 1899.

During our stay in Cody we learned that there is an active campground ministry in the RV parks and campgrounds. Cowboy church services are held during the summer. At present, however, there is only one couple doing these services and they are praying for 10 more people to come and help them with this ministry. We promised to keep in touch and pray about the possibility of being involved in this ministry next summer.

On Tuesday, July 13th we start our homeward journey. Although we are looking forward to getting back to Cochrane we are saddened to leave the work here in Montana and Wyoming. Because of the positive responses of the churches and the many invitations to return, however, we know we will be back again. Over the years, each tour has brought new insights and challenges, but never any doubts about why we need to stay on the trail sharing the Gospel message wherever He leads.

On the trail for Him,

Mike & Suzann

TEN SLEEP COWBOY CHURCH

2010-07-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks

Wow! What a week this has been in Ten Sleep, Wyoming. Daily temperatures reached 105 F, we joined in their July 4th celebrations, went to a rodeo and held cowboy church on the rodeo grounds. We were surrounded by the rodeo stock and, during the service they ran wild horses into the arena. What a setting for a cowboy church! Cowboy hats, jeans, boots, and spurs were the attire for the day. This is cowboy country and we felt the cowboy church was a real highlight of our tour.

The Ten Sleep Southern Baptist Church has only about 30 members. They draw from the ranches in the area, as well as the town (population 305). The church has been without a pastor for quite a while but now has an interim pastor. There are also several competent and active deacons that serve the church. We were invited back next year and, if we are in the area, this will sure be a stop on our tour.

We leave for Cody on Tuesday, July 6th, for our last service in Wyoming. I have been given some names and contact information for event organizers in the Cody area (including cowboy churches). Hopefully, I will be able to contact these people and book some engagements for 2011. It seems that doors continue to open to our ministry in the U.S. as we continue to reach out to the churches in the rural areas and smaller communities.

Please pray for us as we start the long journey back to Cochrane. After nearly six weeks on the road, we are getting tired and are looking forward to getting home to rest. While this has been one of our better-organized tours, the number of performances and services has kept us very busy. Remember it’s your prayers that keep us on the trail.

On the trail for Him,

Mike & Suzann

SUNSHINE AT LAST

2010-06-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

This is the Wyoming we had expected. The temperature has climbed to the high 80’s and we’ve started to dry out.

Heart Mountain Cowboy Church in Powell was held in a barn and, for the very first time, there were horses in the stalls during the service. Four young adults and an older couple from Powell joined the regulars and we had a great service. I think the horses even enjoyed it. The pastor was quite happy and we are praying that this might be the jumpstart he needed to get the church off the ground.

We spent an extra day in Lovell and I was able to replace the skylight on the trailer. We are still waiting for the roof vent, but I have managed to tape over the holes and it doesn’t leak. After a short drive we arrived in Greybull, WY, and set up our trailer behind the church. Grace Southern Baptist Church was founded in 1954 but is still a small flock congregation. They have been without a pastor since September 2009, and were in the process of calling a new pastor. I was asked to take both the morning and evening service, which I was happy to do. The morning service was quite well attended and folks enjoyed the Gospel music and cowboy poetry. Visitors from several other churches in Greybull came out for the evening service and we had a good time sharing the Gospel and enjoying their fellowship.

We’ll spend a couple of days in Greybull before moving on down the trail to Ten Sleep. After four weeks on the road, there’s a pile of laundry to be washed and general maintenance of the trailer to be done. The church has provided us with access to their mission house, and we’ll take advantage of their generosity.

Our time in Greybull has been uplifting. The genuine acceptance of our ministry has encouraged us to continue the work the Lord has given us to do. As we look back on the last four weeks, we are overwhelmed by the reception we have received from the Southern Baptist churches in Montana and Wyoming. Although we experienced some hail damage to the truck and trailer, the Lord has remained faithful and we are looking forward to what ever He has in store for us as we continue our tour.

On the trail for Him,

Mike & Suzann

SEVERE WEATHER

2010-06-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

What a week this has been! On the 16th of June a hailstorm rolled through Columbus, MT. Hail stones the size of golf balls took out the roof vents on the trailer, broke the mirrors and pitted the hood on the pickup. All in all it was a pretty wild night and we are thankful that the damage was not more extensive. Next, when we arrived in Lovell, WY, they had a heavy rainstorm the night before. Parking the trailer was a nightmare because of all the standing water and mud in the church parking lot. It seems we are traveling during a very active weather system. Please pray that the Lord keeps us safe as we continue our tour in Wyoming.

Now for some good news. We were able to set up our trailer and meet with the pastor, Mike McKnight, of Faith Southern Baptist Church in Lovell. This is an older church with a declining congregation. Pastor Mike has suffered eight heart attacks and is limited in his physical activity. Although there were no visitors at the service, we had a great time fellowshipping with the congregation, as well as the pastor and his wife. More and more we are finding that we can be a tremendous blessing and source of encouragement to these small congregations.

Pastor Mike has started a cowboy church in Powell, WY, which we will visit on Tuesday night. We are looking forward to worshiping with the ranchers, farmers, and, of course the cowboys in the area. After the cowboy church we travel to Grey Bull, WY. The church is without a pastor and we will be filling in for the morning worship service. Since this is also cowboy country, we are looking forward to meeting and worshiping with these folks.

Your prayers continue to be vital to our ministry, as we share our songs, poems, and testimony as the Lord leads and open doors. It’s comforting to know we have folks praying for us, especially during a hailstorm or tornado watch.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

RAIN, SNOW AND SUNSHINE

2010-06-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

We left Townsend in sunshine and arrived in White Sulphur Springs in a heavy rainstorm. That night the temperature dropped and it snowed. The mountain peaks we see from the RV park were covered with snow. The rain lasted for another three days and then we were back in sunshine again. Montana weather seems to be same as that in Cochrane. It’s a good thing we brought along the right clothes for all the changes in the weather.

The owners of the Conestoga RV Park in White Sulphur Springs are Christian friends and I was able to exchange some product and a couple of evenings entertaining the campers for our park rent. Having a full hookup has made our stay here more comfortable and sure beats a WalMart or church parking lot.

Both the morning service and the evening concert at the Mountainview Community Church were very well attended. There was a good mix of church members, folks from the town, and campers from the RV Park. The church only seats 75 people and averages about 30 people each week. To see the church nearly full was a great encouragement to the pastor and his wife. Suzann and I have had a long association with this church. Five years ago, when we first came to White Sulphur Springs, they had no pastor and were ready to close the doors as the congregation had dwindled to 5 people. About 30 people attended our first concert in the church and, over the years they have managed to retain many of them. Now they have a pastor and the church is growing and has a positive influence in the community.

We will be leaving White Sulphur Springs for Lovell, WY, and will be breaking new ground with our ministry. For the next 4 weeks we will be sharing our songs and poems for the first time in all the remaining churches on our Wyoming tour. Many of these churches do not have pastors or have just called a pastor. Our prayer is that we can be a blessing to the folks in these congregations and, particularly, to the individuals who are striving to keep the doors of their churches open.

Thanks for your faithfulness in praying for us as we travel. Ours is not a typical Gospel music ministry, as we target small rural churches. We’re thankful for the many doors that have opened and for the privilege to serve in this way. We would also encourage you to pray for each of the churches on our tour schedule. Together, we can make an impact for Jesus in Montana and Wyoming.

On the trail for Him,

Mike & Suzann

ON THE TRAIL IN MONTANA

2010-06-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

Well, the tour has started with a bang! For two days, I performed at the Cowboy Entertainer Gathering in Townsend, MT. It was good to be back at the Townsend Gathering after an absence of two years. There were old friends to great and new friends to meet. The caliber of the western music performers at this gathering was top notch and I got to perform with a number of them. The old bass got quite a workout and I even played the harmonica. As a featured performer on the Friday night show, I was able to share several of my original songs. All in all, it was a great event and one not to be missed.

The highpoint of the weekend for us, however, was the Cowboy Church service at the Elkhorn Community Fellowship. This was the first service in the church since it was closed over two years ago. A young church planter and his wife, Eric and Jessica Crusch, are working hard to relaunch the church in Townsend. We also enjoyed the company of Baptist folks from Louisiana, South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia. They had come to work on the church building. It had fallen into disrepair and needed sprucing up. It is likely that Eric and Jessica will start to hold regular Sunday services while they continue to work in the community to reestablish this work in Townsend.

In reflecting on the weekend, it certainly confirmed the work that the Lord has called us to do. Throughout the western states there are many small communities with small churches and new works that need encouragement. If we can be a source of that encouragement and be of some help to them, then our labour has not been in vain.

Please pray for the Elkhorn Community Fellowship in Townsend that they will be able to keep the doors open and that the Lord’s work will prosper. As we continue our tour, pray for Suzann and I that we will be able to reach out to folks with the Gospel message and encourage believers in their walk with Christ.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

TOUR INFORMATION

2010-05-26T12:47:00.001-07:00

Howdy Folks!

For those of you who follow and pray for our Songs of Faith Ministries, here is our confirmed tour itinerary.

June 4-5 - Cowboy Entertainer Gathering, Townsend, MT (featured performer of Saturday evening show)
June 6 - Elkhorn Community Fellowship, Townsend, MT (special service to relaunch church)
June 13 - Mountainview Community Church, White Sulphur Springs, MT (morning worship service and evening concert)
June 20 - Faith Southern Baptist Church, Lovell, WY (morning worship service)
June 22 - Heart Mountain Cowboy Church, Powell, WY (cowboy church service)
June 27 - Grace Southern Baptist Church, Greybull, WY (morning worship service)
July 4 - Ten Sleep Baptist Church, Ten Sleep, WY (cowboy church service at local rodeo)
July 11 - New Hope Southern Baptist Church, Cody, WY (morning worship service)
July 18 - Calvary Baptist Church, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan (morning worship service)

Please pray that:
- we will be a blessing to the folks in these churches, as we share the good news of God's never ending love;
- we will stay rested and healthy; and,
- the Lord will continue to provide for all our physical and financial needs as we travel.

If you want more information, please visit our web sit itinerary page. You can keep up with our activities on our Blog, which is updated weekly.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

HERE WE GO AGAIN

2010-05-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

Today I'm sitting in my office looking out the window at another snowstorm. Spring time in Alberta is never predictable. We've had warm summer-like temperatures and a snow storm all in the same week! The bad news is the weather. The good news is that we are still in Cochrane and not on tour. Camping in a travel trailer during a snowstorm is not a pleasant experience.

This spring has been very busy and, as a result, we won't be leaving for our ministry tour until June. Pat Armstrong, our friend from Ontario, graduates from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in May. In April, he was ordained to the Gospel ministry and sent out as a missionary by Cambrian Heights Baptist Church in Calgary. I had the privilege of participating as a member of his ordination council and Suzann prepared the lunch for the council members. A week later, I delivered the charge to the church at his ordination service. Finally, we will be attending his graduation and reception. All in all, it has been a busy few weeks for Suzann and I.

Our tour dates are starting to fill up. We are looking forward to ministering in Montana and Wyoming at several Southern Baptist churches. After a couple of year's absence, I have been invited to perform at the Annual Cowboy Entertainer Gathering in Townsend, MT. Suzann and I are looking forward to meeting up with saddle pals we haven't seen for some time. Before leaving Cochrane, we will make our annual pilgrimage to Clearwater Cowboy Church in Caroline, Alberta. It's always a blessing to worship with these folks.

Please check out our itinerary and remember us in you prayers as we travel. For the most part, we will be ministering in churches new to our ministry.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

A RESOLUTION FOR 2010

2010-01-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

Howdy Folks;

For the most part, I suspect that I’m like most of you when it comes to making New Year’s resolutions. I haven’t made any in years. The other day, however, I was talking to a preacher friend about our respective ministries and he shared this truth with me: “We have but one life to live and one life to give.” As Christians, what better resolution could we make for 2010 and beyond? At the start of this New Year, I have been reminded again that the commission Jesus gave to His disciples (Matthew 28:1920) is not a suggestion; we have been saved to serve.

During 2009, like many other Gospel ministries, we have seen first hand the effects of this economic downturn. Folks are suffering from financial fatigue and are worried about the future. As the fortunes of this life ebb and flow, however, we can take comfort in knowing that the Hand that feeds the sparrow is the One who holds tomorrow. With this in mind, Suzann and I are looking forward to what the Lord has in store for Songs of Faith Ministries in 2010.

Since returning home last November from our Fall tour, I have been busy developing a Sunday school teacher training program for Cambrian Heights Baptist Church. With the assistance of practitioners from the church, the program has been completed and is now being reviewed by the leadership team prior to its implementation. Hopefully, this can be accomplished in the next several months. The availability of this program fills a need for the training of Sunday school teachers in our local church.

The next several months will be taken up with scheduling our annual Spring tour, organizing the program, learning new songs and writing some more cowboy gospel poetry. While we don’t know yet where the Lord will lead us, we have every confidence that He has a plan and will make it known in His time. Our job is to be ready to answer the call when it comes.

Suzann and I are always aware of the many prayers that are offered on our behalf as we travel. Our prayer partners are a vital part of our ministry. As we anticipate another year of service, therefore, we solicit your continued prayers on our behalf. Please pray that the Lord will open doors to new churches and other venues where we can share our Gospel witness the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

REFLECTING ON THE TOUR

2009-11-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks;

We arrived home Thursday evening (Oct. 29th) after spending an extra night in Helena, MT, because of icy roads. When we finally left the RV Park on Thursday morning, we had dry roads through the mountain passes and a tail wind. As a result, we made the border in good time and arrived in Cochrane around 6:30 p.m. It was a long drive and so we left the unpacking of the trailer until Friday.

Since arriving home, we've had a chance to reflect on the results of our tour. Because we were able to park in Blackfoot, ID, for the month of October, we only traveled a little over 5,200 km (3,200 miles). However, we were still able to minister at 11 churches, as well as conduct a cowboy church service at the Dillon, MT, cowboy poetry and music gathering. Although most of these churches were repeat visits, we did introduce our ministry to two new churches (one each in Montana and Idaho). We also had the opportunity to meet the pastor of the Soda Springs Baptist Church, Soda Springs, ID. He has asked to be kept informed of our next visit to the area. Our ministry was well received and most of the churches had visitors attending the services. Of interest, was the growth in the cowboy church in Lemhi, ID, and the new cowboy church that started in Firth, ID, since our last visit to eastern Idaho. We were greatly blessed as we traveled and shared the Gospel message.

Now that the trailer is unpacked and store, we are settling in for the winter. Over the next several months, we will seek the Lord's will as to next year's tours. Several opportunities have presented themselves and need to be explored. We are confident that the Lord has the situation well in hand and await His direction.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

TRAIL'S END 2009

2009-10-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

It was another busy Sunday for us as we spent a long day traveling to churches in Downey and Soda Springs, Idaho. Both are small congregations in the southeastern part of the state. Fortunately, the church in Downey meets in the American Legion Hall and the room is very small. As a result, I didn’t need to set up the sound system and this made it easier to get back on the road and head for Soda Springs after the service.

Both of these works are associated with the American Missionary Fellowship. Although the churches are small, they have a very positive testimony in their communities. We certainly enjoyed the fellowship and sure appreciated their warm welcome and acceptance of our Ministry. This brought our Fall tour to a close on a very positive note.

After a short rest, we plan on leaving for Cochrane on Tuesday, October 27th. This will give us a few extra days to travel should the weather turn bad. Hopefully, it will be an uneventful trip and we are looking forward to getting back home. For those of you who have been following our blog over the past several weeks, you know how busy we have been. Several new churches have been visited and we have made more contacts for next year’s tour. We’ve put a lot of miles on the truck and trailer and, to date, have had no problems with either unit. The Lord has certainly blessed our ministry and met all our needs on this tour.

Thanks for all your prayers and e-mail messages of encouragement.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

A VERY BUSY SUNDAY

2009-10-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks

Another week has gone by and we have been very busy with our ministry in Idaho. The weather has stayed seasonable and so we have had no problems traveling to the churches.

This past weekend we drove 90 miles to Malad, Idaho, for the morning worship service at the Victory Baptist Church. Since our last visit two years ago, they have nearly completed their new church building. They have no debt, as they only built when they had funds to pay for materials. All of the work was completed by volunteers from the church, as well as builders from across the U.S. They have a few finishing touches left to complete, but it is a very functional facility that will serve the congregation in the future. The service was well attended with several visitors from the community, who stayed for the potluck and fellowship time after the service. We have made many good friends at the church who follow our ministry and actively pray for us as we travel.

After a quick lunch, we packed up the sound system and drove for two hours across the desert to Moore, Idaho, for their afternoon church service. The Country Church in Moore is located in a rural farming area and hold their Sunday school and church service in the afternoon. We made it just in time to set up the sound system but not have a sound check before the service started. No matter, we just adjusted things after we got started. Again, this little church has grown since our last visit. They have nearly completed the renovations to the building they purchased and have a new pastor. The service was advertised throughout the area and attracted a large number of visitors. Many of these folks said they would be coming back to the church. Assisting smaller churches with their outreach initiatives is the crux of our ministry.

After a time of fellowship with folks in the church and a quick meal in the local restaurant, we drove back to Blackfoot, Idaho, arriving just after 9:30 in the evening. All in all we had a 13 hour day and traveled about 300 miles. We were sure tired, but excited at the unique opportunity God had given us to spread his word. It seems hard to believe that we have been on the road for nearly five weeks and ministered at 8 churches, in addition to a cowboy church service at the Dillon, MT, cowboy poetry gathering. The Lord has blessed us tremendously as we traveled meeting all our needs and opening doors for our ministry. We are continually thankful for the faithful folks who pray for us.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

WARM DAYS AND COLD NIGHTS

2009-10-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks

The weather has turned cold! Most mornings are well into the freezing range. I’ve taken to draining our water hose at night. Otherwise, we have to wait until the sun melts the ice in hose before we can take a shower. I’m sure glad that we won’t be living in the trailer all winter. During the day, however, it is quite warm and pleasant. Still no snow in our area, but it is all around us in the higher elevations.

This past Sunday we were at the Blackfoot Southern Baptist Church. Those who have followed our ministry are probably aware that this is the first church we ministered at when we started Songs of Faith Ministries. In some ways, it has become our home church while we are in the U.S. The service was well attended and there were quite a few visitors. It seems that folks enjoy the music and poetry and the relaxed style the Gospel is presented. Suzann says I’m starting to collect “groupies”. I told her that was not too bad for an old guy.

The next two weeks will be very busy. We have two services each Sunday and need to drive for a couple of hours between churches. Of course, they are all small rural churches, which suits us fine. Over the years, we’ve learned that these rural congregations are a good fit for our type of ministry. It’s heartwarming to have the folks sing along with the old hymns and gospel songs.

While we always look forward to heading home after a lengthy tour, it’s hard to shift gears and settle back down to life in Cochrane. When we are on the road our ministry is very intensive and doesn’t allow for much free time. It’s always exciting to conduct a worship service and meet the folks in the congregation. Even after the second or third visit, it’s still good to visit and share the Gospel.

Keep praying for us as we travel and minister. We still have many miles to go and solicit your prayers on our behalf.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

A COWBOY CHURCH WEEKEND

2009-10-05T12:48:00.001-07:00

Howdy folks;

Well, another week is in the history book. We’ve had a few sunny days, but mostly rain and snow. The temperature continues to be well below the seasonal average. Because of the weather, the potato harvest has been delayed and the farmers are anxious to get into their fields. If you’re not a potato farmer you are a rancher and busy moving cattle from the high country to the feeding grounds on the home range. Consequently, potatoes and cattle were the main topic of conversation at the cowboy churches in Blackfoot and Firth, Idaho, over the weekend.

Although the new Christ’s Country Cowboy Church in Blackfoot is only a few months old, it is growing rapidly. They already have three candidates for baptism and have a congregation of 30 to 40 people that meet every Saturday night in a riding arena. It was a little challenging to set up the sound system on the dirt floor and try to keep my balance as I moved around. There were over 50 folks out that night with some from other churches in the area. It looks like some of them intend to follow us around during our stay in Idaho.

Sunday night found us at the Firth Cowboy Church. This church meets only once a month and has a smaller congregation. However, as I suspected, several folks from the Blackfoot cowboy church were in attendance. As a result, the congregation was a little larger than normal. They didn’t seem to mind that it was the same program. The potluck after the service provided a time for fellowship and brought the evening and the weekend to a pleasant close.

At both cowboy churches, we were continually confronted by folks who said they were blessed by the message in the old gospel songs and cowboy poetry. This feedback is what keeps us on the trail. As we move into the last half of our tour, we are looking forward to the opportunity to minister at the remaining churches on our itinerary in Eastern Idaho. Hopefully, the weather will return to the seasonal averages and we won’t see more snow. We also pray that our ministry will bless and encourage the folks in these small rural congregations. While we look forward to being back with our friends at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, we know that the Lord has work for us to do in Idaho. To this end, we’ll keep following as the Lord leads.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

ON FAMILIAR RANGE

2009-09-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks;

It was a great week in Dillon, MT. We were able to catch up with our friends and fellow performers at the Gathering. It was a bittersweet time, however, as this was the last Gathering to be held in Dillon. I led the cowboy church service on Sunday morning and we had some great gospel music and poetry. That evening we ministered to the folks at the Beaverhead Baptist Church in Dillon. They have a young enthusiastic pastor and, although they are only a small congregation, they are very solid. Hopefully, we will be able to get back next year.

Our trip to Blackfoot, ID, was uneventful. The weather was holding beautifully in the upper 80F range. Hard to believe it is fall, but they say more seasonal temperatures are coming. We parked at a small community RV Park in Shelley, ID. The intention was to spend a few days at Shelley until we could find an RV Park to rent space for the month of October. As it turned out, our sister-in-law’s neighbour has a full hookup trailer spot on his property and offered it to us free, if we would watch the house while they were on vacation. The Lord does provide!

The New Hope Community Church in Soda Springs, ID, has invited us to minister. This additional opportunity fills our schedule to the brim. Our philosophy has always been to serve wherever we are led and we praise God for every door that opens. Each year a few more cowboy churches are added and we are seeing other new works started in the smaller communities in Eastern Idaho.

As I’m writing this Blog, the weather has changed. The temperature has really dropped and it is raining. They say it will last for about three days and then warm up some. In spite of the weather, we are looking forward to our month of ministry in the Blackfoot area. The warm reception we receive from the US churches more than makes up for a drop in the outside temperature.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann Burns

OVER THE MOUNTAINS WE GO

2009-09-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

Well, we've been on the trail nearly a week and have covered a lot of territory. After crossing the border, we headed for Salmon, Idaho. The plan was to take Highway 93 from Missoula to Salmon. Good plan, high mountain passes!!! We crawled over two high passes and, at times, I wondered if our outfit would make it to the summit. Then I found out that going up was one thing, but coming down was another. I was sure glad the brakes on the truck had been replaced before we left Cochrane.

We arrived in Salmon a little later than expected and set up the trailer in the parking lot of the Salmon Valley Baptist Church. The weather was still holding and it is a beautiful fall. This is probably the most gorgeous valley we stay in and we look forward to the opportunity to minister here. Since I had the big bass with me, I offered to play with the praise team on Sunday morning. The folks in the church were a little surprised at first, but seemed to enjoy the addition to the praise team. Pastor Mike Palmer left enough time in the service for several gospel songs and, of course, a cowboy poem. As always, the congregation enjoyed the old hymns and quickly began to sing along.

That evening we traveled 28 miles to Lemhi and crossed the Lemhi River eight times according to Suzann's count. The Lemhi River Cowboy Church has grown in the three years it has been in existence. Folks from miles around the community attend on a regular basis. Attendance ranges from 50 to 80 on a Sunday evening. It was a great time of fellowship as we greeted old friends and met new ones.

We plan on spending a few days in Salmon before heading to Dillon, Montana. The Cowboy Poetry Gathering will take up the rest of the week. Sunday evening we have been invited to minister at the Beaverhead Southern Baptist Church in Dillon. This will be a good way to end a week of ministry.

Please continue to pray for good weather and roads as we travel. Also, several doors have opened to our ministry since we left Cochrane and your prayers for these new opportunities would be greatly appreciated.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

SUMMER AT LAST!

2009-07-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks;

After weeks of cold and wet weather, summer has arrived. Those hot days and cool nights we've come to enjoy living in the foothills of the Rockies are here at last. Needed yard work and outside house maintenance is finally getting done.

For the most part, Songs of Faith has taken a break from the road. Only short day trips to local churches and small groups have been on the agenda. We enjoyed an opportunity to minister to the folks at the Clearwater Cowboy Church located in Dovercourt, Alberta. Sure enjoyed pickin' and singin' with their praise team and presenting some special music and cowboy poetry. We have many good friends in the congregation and appreciate their prayerful support of our ministry.

A group of volunteers from the USA called Campers-On-Mission have been helping with the renovations at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church. Their trailers are parked at the Canadian National Baptist Convention headquarters in Cochrane. They invited me to present a devotional program to their group. They are a wonderful group of people and it was a blessing to share with them.

Last week, I had an opportunity to meet with a local pastor who hosts an internet southern gospel music program. He wanted our CDs to play on his program. We were happy to share our music with him and look forward to hearing from folks who catch the program on the net. For those of you who listen to internet radio you can go to www.bertradio-online.com and sign up. The program is called Sunday Side Up. There is a new 2 hour show every week and I can tell you it is great music.

Thanks for your prayers and we look forward to seeing some of you on the trail real soon.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

HOME AT LAST

2009-06-22T13:23:00.001-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, after several days in Winnipeg visiting with my brother George and conducting a service at the Union Gospel Mission, we headed for Regina. The service at the mission was a different experience, but we had a blessed time sharing our Gospel witness with the folks in the inner city area of Winnipeg. After the service, we had an opportunity to meet with the pastor of New Life Sanctuary. This is a dynamic and growing church and we look forward to hearing from them in the future.

Our trip to Regina was accompanied by a tail wind, so we made good time and gas mileage. From Regina to Cochrane was a long day, but we arrived home in the late afternoon. We traveled nearly 9,000 km without incident and, although we were really tired, our spirits were rejoicing as we looked back on the many blessings we had received.

The next few days were spent unloading the trailer and getting organized for ministry opportunities in Alberta. On Sunday, June 21st, we travelled to Acme, Alberta, to minister at the Acme United Church. This was there annual Cowboy Sunday and we had a great time singing and sharing our gospel poetry. This is a small ranching/farming community so our western style was well received. There were many visitors from the community and the church was full.

Tour dates for the fall have not been confirmed as yet. Hopefully, we will be able to set up an itinerary for September and October. We are open to the any opportunities and are just waiting on the Lord's leading in this matter. In the meantime, we will keep our options open knowing that where the Lord leads is where we will be needed.

I've heard from many folks who prayed for us as we ministered in Ontario. We are trusting that you will continue to pray as we seek to share the Gospel the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

BACK IN THE WEST

2009-06-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

Thus far, the trip home has been uneventful. We ran into snow near Sudbury, so much for global warming. For the most part, the weather has been cold and wet. We are looking forward to some of that Alberta sunshine.

We arrived in Winnipeg in good time and plan on spending a few days with my brother George. This Sunday morning we are doing a service for New Life Sanctuary. While in Winnipeg, I hope to contact some of the pastors and others in the area. Hopefully, we will be back on the road by Monday.

Having spent nearly five weeks on the road, it will be good to be back in Cochrane. Our vision of Canada has changed. Even those communities that are “well churched”, folks are still hungry for the Gospel. It is imperative that we, as Canadians, take up the challenge of reaching these communities for Christ.

We have several days of travel left and solicit your prayers on our behalf. This has been a revealing tour and has given us new insight into the great need in our country for the Gospel. Continue to pray as we reach out for Christ the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

HOMEWARD BOUND

2009-05-29T15:02:00.001-07:00

With the completion of the meetings in Coldwater, our sojourn in Ontario has come to an end. As we head back down the trail to Alberta, we will have plenty of time to reflect on the events of the past several weeks. Our meetings in Coldwater brought us into contact with folks who have been praying for a Baptist church to be established in their community. For the first time, we had children attend our meetings and they were a great delight. Again, although numbers were not large, the results were positive. It was evident that the Lord’s hand was upon our efforts in this community.

Our Bible teacher, Kevin Peacock, returned to Cochrane, Alberta, Friday morning and we are planning on spending a few days in the area to rest. We also plan on having a debriefing session with Pat and Nadine Armstrong before we part company for the summer. Please keep them in your prayers as they undertake the organization of follow up Bible studies with the folks we met over the past few weeks.

This has been an intense ministry tour for us and, although our bodies are tired our spirits have been strengthened by the work. We have done our best and now it is up to the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of those with whom we came in contact. While we are looking forward to getting home, our heartfelt prayer is that the Lord will continue His work in this area.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns
Songs of Faith Ministries

PENETANGUISHENE

2009-05-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

Our time in Penetanguishene was profitable to the extent that we made our presence known in the community. Folks did not come to the meetings, except for the last night. A woman, who attends the Alliance church in Midland, came on the last night. I was able to sing at the retirement residence to about half of their residents. There’s a good possibility for a small group Bible study in the future.

We also were able to talk to some of the locals about the town and surrounding communities. Potentially, the area is ripe for Bible studies and small group ministries. While we were not able to attract folks to our meetings, we the time spent in Penetanguishene was worthwhile. It is a logical community to focus on along with Midland and Coldwater. Opportunities are plentiful and the need is great.

As we leave Penetanguishene, we travel down the road to Coldwater. Again we set up in the community centre parking lot. We’re thankful that we brought along a generator. At least we have electricity to run the toaster. A water and sewer hookup would be nice but we can get along with out them.

After a year of planning and praying, it’s come down to our last three meetings. Team members are tired but haven’t lost their enthusiasm for the work. We are looking forward to the last three meetings in Coldwater and then heading back to Alberta.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

MIDLAND MEETINGS

2009-05-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

Another series of meetings in yet another Ontario community. Kevin Peacock joined us in Midland and brought the team up to full strength again. Gary Smith remained in Winnipeg and has organized follow-up meetings in Kenora. We are looking forward to the results of his activities over the next several weeks.

We had our highest attendance in Midland. Twelve local folks attended the second night. They represented three or four denominations, yet expressed interest in having an organized Bible study in their community. Thus far, we seem to be attracting churched people, who are looking for more exposure to the Bible. The Lord has a definite purpose for our presence in this area. Each night brings a confirmation of the need that is not being met by many of the local churches

At the halfway point of this tour, we are tired but steadfast in our conviction that we are where the Lord wants us to be. We are looking forward to the next series of meetings in Penetanguishene and Coldwater, before heading home to Alberta. I’ve managed to pick up a gig at the local senior citizen residence in Penetanguishine Hopefully, I will be able to use this opportunity to publicize our meetings in the area.

Throughout these last several weeks, we have had some great experiences as we ministered the Word. We’ve seen a lot of country and met a lot of people. All this would not be possible without your faithful prayers.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann Burns

NORTHERN ONTARIO

2009-05-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

It’s hard to believe that we’ve been on the road for over two weeks. During that time, we have traveled over 3,000 km and held six services. Attendance numbers were not large, but the response has been genuine and enthusiastic.
After the meetings in Kenora, we headed the caravan east again. Our next stop would be Azilda, Ontario, a small community on the outskirts of Sudbury. We arrived late Saturday afternoon and, after meeting with the pastor, set up the sound eauipment. Azilda Baptist Chapel is an old school house with some limitations but, as the pastor said: “It’s paid for.”

In spite of the holiday long weekend, the church was nearly full on Sunday morning. Our posters had been put up in the town and drew a few folks to the service. Being an older congregation, there was no problem with the old hymns and gospel songs. With a little explanation, even the cowboy poetry was well received.

After the service, we packed up again and headed to the Muskoka region for our next series of meetings. We parked in a provincial park and spent some time reorganizing and cleaning up the trailer. The weather is starting to warm up and we are settling into trailer living. For the next few days, we will be putting up posters for our meetings in Penetaguishine and Coldwater. These communities are not very far a part and, hopefully, we will be able to draw folks to our meetings over the next two weeks.

Keep up the prayers as we minister in this area.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

THE KEEWATIN CONNECTION

2009-05-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

We arrived in Kenora early Saturday afternoon (May 9th) and parked the trailers behind the Keewatin Arena. They told us we could set up the sound system on Sunday afternoon. This gave us a chance to inspect the community of Keewatin and take a drive into Kenora. The city sure has changed since we were here ten years ago. The paper mill has shut down and unemployment is high in the area. In the short time we are here, it will be hard to get an accurate picture of the economic situation. It is clear, however, the tourism is the major employer for most folks.

The attendance at our first service was small but we managed to add a few people each night. Gary Smith’s messages were right on the mark and folks said they enjoyed the old hymns and gospel songs, as well as the cowboy poetry. Sometimes a little explanation was needed so that they understood the cowboy terms but, all in all, the message in the poems got through.

There was some interest in having Bible studies and, at least, one couple indicated that they would serve as a contact for an eventual church plant. In as much as Keewatin could be serviced from Winnipeg, this is a very positive outcome for our ministry over the past three days.

The next leg of our trip will require long days on the road, as we must reach Azilda, Ontario, by Saturday. Our route will take us along Lake Superior and will be a very scenic drive. Again, it has been many years since I’ve driven this highway and I’m looking forward to the experience.

We certainly appreciate all your prayers on our behalf. Every day is a new adventure and we experience God’s leading and His blessing.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann Burns

SADDLED UP AND READY TO RIDE

2009-05-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks

It’s hard to believe, but the tour has begun. We left Cochrane on Friday morning and arrived in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan later that evening. After getting set up at the back of the church, we met with Pastor Bob Butt and his wife Laura. Both are graduates of the Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochrane. We had a good time sharing events that have happened and updating them on people they knew. It didn’t take us long to shut it down for the night and get some sleep.

On Saturday, I was able to get the sound system set up and tested for the Sunday services. Calvary Baptist Church is an older building and I had a little trouble finding power sources for the equipment. Pastor Bob explained the “secret” to getting the outlets to work and then I was able to get everything turned on. Pat and Nadine Armstrong arrived in the afternoon and I helped them set up. Now that the team is together, it seems like we’re actually making progress.

The attendance at the Sunday morning worship service was lower than usual as quite a few the regulars were traveling. The pastor encouraged the folks to invite others out to the evening concert. They did and the evening attendance was much greater than they had expected and included a number of visitors. For the most part, Calvary Baptist is a traditional church and, needless to say, they enjoyed the old hymns, gospel songs and cowboy poetry. After the concert there was a time of fellowship and most of the people stayed and visited.

We left Moose Jaw on Monday morning after having breakfast with the pastor and a few of the congregation. The trip across Saskatchewan was uneventful, except for the wind which made us use a lot gas pulling the trailers. Hamiota is a small prairie town and we will be parked in the campgrounds for a few days before heading to Kenora, Ontario. Pat’s mother and sister live in Hamiota and he is taking the opportunity to visit them. Since this is our first major stop since leaving Cochrane, it will give us an opportunity to do some maintenance on the trailer. After being stored for the winter, there are some screws to be tightened, hoses to be checked, etc., etc.

Keep praying for us as we start the church planting meetings in Kenora. We have no idea what the Lord has in mind, but we are confident that He is leading and the results will be according to His will.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

BACK TO ONTARIO

2009-04-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Having left Ontario some 27 years ago, I must must confess I'm looking forward to our upcoming tour of that province. I just checked the calendar and realized that one week from today we'll be on the trail again. Those of you who follow this blog are aware that we will be touring Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario during May and June. Our ministry partner on this tour will be Great Lakes Christian Ministries. Their ministry focuses on church planting and Suzann and I will be supporting their efforts with some good old fashioned gospel songs and cowboy poetry.

For the past several weeks, we have been getting the truck and trailer serviced, buying necessary supplies and getting our programs ready. One big difference on this tour is that I didn't have to ship my CDs and books to the USA. This time, we'll be able to carry our product with us. I'll also be able to watch the Stanley Cup play offs and, if the Calgary Flames get past the first round, I'll be one happy hockey fan.

As usual, the weather in Cochrane is unpredictable. Last night we had another major snowfall and expect more snow over the next several days. The snow will make it messy to load the trailer and, hopefully, most of it will be melted before next Friday. A travel trailer is not the warmest accommodation on a wintery night. This week, I had the opportunity to entertain the Calgary Retired Teachers' Association at their annual symposium. My eclectic collection of cowboy songs and poems seemed to go over well and garner some interest for future events. It seems I'll have to keep up the cowboy side of my program.

While we are on the trail, I'm going to try and keep this blog up-to-date. In meantime, we certainly request your prayers that the Lord will bless our ministry, as well as that of Great Lakes Christian Ministries.

On the trail for Him
Mike and Suzann

MISSION ONTARIO 2009

2009-03-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks;

Well, things are sure coming together for the planned church planting mission trip to Ontario in May. Halls have been booked in Kenora, Midland, Penetanguishene and Coldwater. A gospel concert has also been set up for Alzilda, Ontario. I don't want to calculate the distance we are going to travel but, let me say, Canada is a big country and these communities are a long way from Cochrane, Alberta. In the past several weeks, promises of support have been received and it is evident that the Lord's hand is in this church planting mission effort.

For Suzann and I, this will be a different kind of tour. While I will still be singing and reciting, the emphasis will be upon church planting. Team members will be prayer waking during the day and following up after each meeting. Hopefully, the folks in the East will relate to my western style of presenting the Gospel the old fashioned way.

Over the next several months, we will be getting the truck and trailer ready for travel. I will also be setting up Songs of Faith concerts along the way to and from Ontario. Calvary Baptist Church in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan has already confirmed May 3rd for a concert. To the best of my knowledge this church planting strategy has never been attempted before. Your prayerful support will be greatly appreciated.

In the meantime, my efforts will be directed toward writing some new cowboy gospel poetry and learning more of them old gospel songs.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

FROM OUR OUTFIT TO YOURS

2009-01-14T09:52:00.000-08:00

Howdy Folks!

Time sure slips by. It seems like I keep falling farther and farther behind every day. Keeping this blog up-to-date is a case in point. Folks have told me that they enjoy reading it and look forward to regular updates. So, I'll try to do better in 2009.

Since we got home in October from our northern Alberta tour, we have become involved in some additional ministries at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, In addition to our role as a deacon family and regular members of the praise team, Suzann and I have been promoting a small group ministry and, recently, I took on the responsibility of Minister of Christian Education. In this capacity, I will be developing a training program for Sunday school teachers and others. Once completed, this training program will be implemented at our church and, then, made available to other churches.

As to Songs of Faith Minisitres, we have committed ourselves to a church planting mission in the Spring. The focus of this initiative will be on northwestern and northern Ontario. We have partnered with a couple from the Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochrane, Pat and Nadine Armstrong, who feel called to this ministry. Plans are still tentative, however, we anticipate they will be firmed up in the near future. Pray with us that souls will be saved and churches planted for the glory of God.

For the next several months, our schedule will be directed toward our responsibilites at Cambrian Heights and planning for our mission trip. I hope to be able to schedule another tour of the western states later this year. We've had some inquiries about our availability and are looking forward to the opportunity to share our ministry.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and support over these past several years. As we take Songs of Faith Ministries on the road in 2009, we ask for your continued prayers that the Lord will open up opportunities to share the Gospel the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

NORTH TO THE PEACE COUNTRY

2008-09-30T18:05:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

We left Cochrane on Sept. 5th for the Cowboy Church in Sherwood Park, to start our tour of Northern Alberta. With the promise of warm weather, we looked forward to spending some time in the trailer. This will be the first time we will visit two of our Canadian National Baptist Convention churches in the northern part of the province (Peace Country). These are well-established churches and it will be an exciting opportunity to share the gospel in music and poetry, the cowboy way.

The Cowboy Church was well-attended and seemed to have grown since our last visit in February. Pastor Kevin was his usual welcoming self and we immediately felt right at home. Our first night out in the trailer was a new experience, as we we ran out of propane and spent a cold night under many blankets. Our next stop was in Evansburg at the Baptist Church. Pastor Al had been sick and we were glad to be able to help out with special music and poetry at the morning worship service and, a program for seniors at the Pembina Village in Evansburg in the evening. All in all, it proved to be a very full day of ministry.

After a day of rest, we were back on the trail heading for the Fairview Cornerstone Baptist Church in Fairview, Alberta. Again we had a very full day of ministry. I led the music and presented special music and poetry at the morning worship service. Later, in the afternoon we presented an outdoor cowboy gospel concert. This was the launch of their Sunday School ministry and both of these events were well attended. The weather was holding very warm during the day and it has sure been a very pleasant tour to this point.

We travelled only a short distance from Fairview to spend time with our friends Jerry and Rose Hale in Cleardale, Alberta. We first met them at the Cleardale Gospel Jamboree in the spring. They let us park in the yard and I was able to spend the week catching up with some writing projects, touring the area and having a good time of fellowship with the Hales. I even got to help out with my first branding! Jerry branded 10 cows and he was able to find something for me to do.

Our last concert was at the Worsley Baptist Church, Worsley, Alberta. Pastor Dick Hale and his congregation sure gave us a warm welcome. The church is of log construction, which added to the ambience of the cowboy gospel concert. We returned for the evening service and had a great time singing the old hymns and accompanying some of the songs with the guitar and harmonica. Next time, I'll bring the bass. What a great way to finish a tour.

On the way home, we stopped in Buck Lake, Alberta, to meet up with some dear friends, Iven and Lynne Bryant, and spent a couple of days touring the area and enjoying the fall weather. The Bryants have been supporters of our ministry since its inception and it was good to have an opportunity to fellowship with them.

After our short "vacation" at Buck Lake, we headed back to Cochrane to begin the serious work of getting the trailer winterized for storage and the yard cleaned up for the winter. Although the tour was shorter than usual, it was a real blessing to meet the pastors and folks in Fairview and Worsley. Their acceptance of our ministry was certainly encouraging and we look forward to another time when we can visit them again.

Thanks to all of you who continue to pray for us as we reach out with the gospel to folks in the small churches, especially, those in Alberta.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann

STILL LEAVIN' SOME DUST

2008-09-03T18:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

It seems I've neglected to keep our ministry schedule up to date on our blog. For folks who follow our travels, it could look like we are packing it in for the fall. Not true! In fact, we leave Friday morning (Sept. 5th) for a short tour of Alberta churches. Over the next three weeks, we will be ministering in Sherwood Park at the Cowboy Church, Evansburg Baptist Church, Fairview Baptist Church and Worsley Baptist Church. This will give us an opportunity to say howdy to some old friends and meet some new ones. The churches in Fairview and Worsley are new to our ministry and we are looking forward to being with them.

It was a pleasant surprise to have the editor of the Baptist Horizon (our denominational newsletter) interview me and write an article about my winning the Golden Note Award, Songs of Faith and my cowboy poetry book. She even included one of my poems in the article. I've already been contacted about our ministry from folks who read the article. Several ministry opportunities are now in the works for 2009.

Right now we are very busy putting the last things in the trailer and trying not to forget anything. We appreciate your prayers and have no doubt that they keep us on the road.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

TRAIL DUST OF A BUCKAROO

2008-07-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

It's been some time since I last wrote. After the Cleardale Gospel Jamboree, Suzann and I applied ourselves to the house and yard work that we had neglected over the past few years. I also got serious about getting my book of cowboy poetry to the print-ready stage. It took four edits but is now being printed and should be ready for sale in the next few weeks. Getting it to this stage has been a steep learning curve, but it has been a useful experrience. I certainly appreciate the work other cowboy poets have done to get their books to market.

The book is titled Trail Dust of a Buckaroo and is an eclectic collection of my cowboy poetry. Included are all the requested favourites such as: The Catalogue Order; A Senior Moment; Ol' Coosie; and, At the End of the Cowboy Trail. The cover art is by Cochrane western artist Shannon Luyendyk. Her picture "Church In the Field" was a perfect cover for the book.

Well, the 2008 Calgary Stampede has come and gone and we participated in our church's stampede breakfast. I was able to share some cowboy poetry with the folks as they ate their pancakes and sausages. As usual, a good number of people from the neighbourhood came out to enjoy the food and the music. This is an annual event at the church and allows us to meet the folks who live near the church.

We are still waithing the Lord's leading for the Fall. A number of opportunities have presented themselves, but we are still waiting on the Lord. So, please continue to pray for us as we seek to share the Gospel the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him

Mike and Suzann

CLEARDALE GOSPEL JAMBOREE

2008-06-18T10:49:00.001-07:00

Howdy Folks!

At the invitation of Jerry and Rose Hale, Suzann and I drove to Clearwater, Alberta to participate in the fifth annual gospel jamboree. In addition to having the opportunity to sing a few old gospel songs, I brought the message at the Sunday morning shurch service. Over 125 recreational vehicles crowded into the RV parking area, tents were set up in the tenting area, and folks drove in each day for the jamboree. Estimates of crowd size ranged from 1,000 to 1,500 over the weekend.

It was great to hear the old gospel songs and hymns sung in the old-fashioned way. Groups traveled to the jamboree from Alberta, British Columbia and Saskachewan to share their messages in song and testimony. What a time of fellowship!
Suzann and I enjoyed meeting each of the participants and sharing "road stories" but, most of all, it was a real bessing to take part in the jamboree.

This week, we will be participating in an outreach event at the Northmount Baptist Church in Calgary. Certainly, not so far to drive, but another opportunity to share the old story in song and poem. As many of you know, we look forward to these opportunities to minister as we continue to wait upon the Lord.

Please continue to pray for us as we seek the Lord's direction for our ministry.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

GOLDEN NOTE AWARD

2008-05-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, you could have knocked me over with a feather, when they announced the winner of this year’s Golden Note Award at the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in St. Anthony, Idaho. It took me a minute to realize that it was my name they were calling.

Most of you are probably not aware of the significance of the award in the cowboy music field. The Cowboy Poets of Idaho Inc., is the largest and, perhaps, the oldest cowboy poetry association in the USA. With nearly 200 members in the Western US and Canada, it encompases the cream of the crop in cowboy singers and poets. The award is a genuine recognition by the members of the Association, who vote the award winner from among the active membership. As the only Canadian to have ever won this award, in the 22 year existence of the Association, I feel very honoured by the support I’ve received from my peers for my traditional cowboy songs.

Suzann and I have gotten bcek into the swing of our cowboy gospel ministry. Our first service at the Blackfoot Southern Baptist Church in Blackfoot, Idaho, was well attended for a Sunday evening service. Since I was introducing our 2008 program, it was good to be at a familiar church. This was the first church we ever presented a cowboy gospel service, when we brought Songs of Faith Ministries to the US. Over the years, these folks have continued to support us with their prayers as we traveled the highways with the gospel.

Our last two services in Idaho, before heading home to Cochrane, where in Malad and McCammon. The Victory Baptist Church in Malad is a small congregation but, doing a mighty work for the Lord in that area. They are in the midst of a building program and we are looking forward to be back with them, when their new church is completed. The McCammon Cowboy Church draws ranchers and farmers from the surrounding area. It was exciting to see the young couples with children attending this church. Pastor Jack Harwell, “Dr.” Jack, serves both churches and we enjoyed our fellowship with him.

This was a short trip, but it’s sure exciting to see the Lord’s hand in our ministry. Please continue to pray for us as we travel. As always, we would appreciate your prayerful support for our Fall ministry tour.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

EXPERIENCING GOD WEEKEND

2008-04-12T13:03:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Earlier this month, Suzann and I participated in an experiencing God weekend at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, Calgary. Folks from our church and Bow Valley Baptist Church in Cochrane, came together to reflect on how we respond to God's initiative in our lives. We also had the opportunity to have the facilitator, Don Gibson, from Dallas, Texas, stay with us. Not only were we blessed by his ministry but also, we had a great time of fellowhip while he visited in our home.

As many of you know, we are not going to tour very extensively this Spring. In fact, we will only be on the road for about two weeks. Our first stop will be the annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering in St. Anthony, Idaho. Following the Gathering, we will stay in Idaho and minister at the Blackfoot Southern Baptist Church in Blackfoot, the Victory Baptist Church in Malad City and, the McCammon Cowboy Church in McCammon. Because our time is limited, it is unlikely that we will be able to accept other invitations. We are flexible, however, and open to the Lord's leading should other opportunities arise.

Our tour plans for the Fall are still undecided. A number of invitations have been received but, there has been no clear direction from the Lord. We continue to pray and would appreciate your prayers also.

For those of you who have been wondering, the poetry book is at the printers and should be ready in May. In response to numerous requests, I have included my gospel poetry (including the Christmas poems). The title of the book is "Trail Dust of a Buckaroo." A notice will be sent out when it is available for sale.

Once again, continue to pray for us as we share the gospel the cowboy way.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

SO THIS IS RETIREMENT

2008-03-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

"How do you manage to keep busy, now that you're retired?" I don't know how many times I've been asked that question but, the answer is always the same. First, Songs of Faith Ministries requires a lot of time to schedule tours, plan programs and concerts, learn new songs and write gospel poems. Lately, I've been writing a book of cowboy poetry that I expect to publish in the summer. It's been a steep learning curve, as I wander through the minefield of the publishing business. Finally, there's our local church, Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, that keeps us grounded in the Word and prayerfully continues to support our Ministry. Somethimes, I think I should go back to work, just to get a rest!

For those of you who follow our travels, we'll be heading out to Idaho in April. In addition to ministering in several churches, including a new cowboy church in McCammon, we'll be participating in the annual St. Anthony Cowboy Poetry Gathering. I've been nominated for the 2008 Golden Note Award and, win or lose, I certainly appreciate this recognition by the members of the Cowboy Poets of Idaho.

Well, daylight saving time, Easter and the gophers came early this year. Suzann is getting eager to get on the road with the trailer. MacDuff is going to get his spring hair cut. As for me, I'm just trying to keep "all the balls in the air," as I juggle my life in retirement.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

ROAD TRIPS

2008-03-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Another weekend, another cowboy church service and another road trip. This past weekend, Suzann and I drove to Sherwood Park, Alberta (just outside of Edmonton) to The Cowboy Church. This is a very active cowboy church that meets every Friday night in a rented church facility. A near capacity crowd came out on a snowy evening to worship and praise the Lord in the cowboy way. The air rang with gospel songs, cowboy poetry and an old-fashioned, no frills gospel message. For the first time in our travels, I got a request to do one of my cowboy poems. Folks seem to respond to the message and, I'm always happy to respond to a request.

As I sit in the office on Monday morning, I've been pondering these weekend road trips and, our upcoming ministry trip to Idaho in April. Over the past year, I've been noticing that groups have been steadily coming of the road. For the most part, the reason given is the increasing cost of fuel for their vehicles. Some groups have even started to charge churches mileage in order to cover their travel expenses. Larger churches may have the financial resources to pay these expenses but, many of the small churches that Songs of Faith visits, would be hard pressed to come up with the necessary funds.

Well, increasing fuel prices are a reality for every traveling ministry and, ours is no exception. To date, the Lord has provided the means to keep us on the road and, until He tells us different we'll keep on traveling. Please pray for us as we travel, as well as for the other ministries that are on the road carrying and sharing the Gospel.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns

Just Too Old Fashioned

2008-03-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Howdy Folks!

As most of you know, Songs of Faith Ministries has never made a pretense about our old fashioned presentation of the gospel. In all our promotional material and in our correspondence with pastors, we make it crystal clear that our program consists of a blend of traditional hymns and gospel songs, down-home singing, rhymes from the range and personal testimony. Over the past several years, feedback from pastors about Songs of Faith, after we have ministered to the folks in their congregations, has been enthusiastic and positive.

Imagine my surprise when I received a response from a pastor telling me that his was not a traditional church and the congregation would not be interested in our presentation. Reading between the lines, however, I suspect he was saying that we were just too old fashioned for the folks in his church. Well, if telling folks about the Saviour's love has become out of fashion, then I'll stay old fashioned. It reminds me of a couplet from one of my cowboy gospel poems: "The old fashioned gospel is in fashion yet today/And the only way to heaven is the old fashioned way."

Fortunately, there are still pastors who preach the Gospel and, congregations who still want to hear it. So, we still have work to do - the old fashioned way! Continue to pray for us as we seek the Lord's leading for 2008.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns
Songs of Faith Ministries

NO TIME FOR REST

2008-02-26T13:01:00.000-08:00

Howdy Folks!

It's been a week since we completed the Experiencing God course. Now, we're heavily involved in organizing the Experiencing God Weekend Event at our home church, Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, Calgary. Plans are shaping up and registration for the event is in progress.

Last Sunday, February 24th, Tom King the pastor of the Clearwater Cowboy Church made a presentation of his cowboy poetry at our morning worship service. I led the music, backed up by the Sagebrush Orchestra (some talented musicians from our church). It was a grand time of worshipping and praising the Lord cowboy style. Folks said the service reminded them of an old-fashioned tent meeting. Tom has MS and is raising funds to pay for an experimental drug, that has shown some promise in treating the disease. Needless to say, the folks at Cambrian Heights were very generous in their financial support for Tom.

Between our expanding church activities, Songs of Faith concerts and organizing our next US tour, it's been a busy few months. We're still waiting on the Lord to open doors in Canada for our ministry. While the response from the churches has been very slow, we are confident that there is work for us to do in Canada, particularly, in the many small rural communities. Join us as we pray for the Lord's leading in this matter.

On the trail for Him,

Mike & Suzann Burns
Songs of Faith Ministries

ABOUT OLD HYMNS

2008-02-19T09:51:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks!

In this day of new praise and worship music and video projectors, the old hymns are becoming an endangered species. But as we sing these new songs to the Lord, let's not forget the old ones. It's the sturdy old hymns of the faith that strengthen and steady us when we're weary and worn. They're the ones we sing when we face adversity and uncertainty or, when rising troubled in the night. Because many of these hymns are chock full of theology, they fill our souls with the timeless truthfulness and accuracy of the Scriptures. They enable us to pray and give us a pulpit for preaching to others. As we join our voices to sing these hymns composed by believers from every era and branch of Christendom, we connect with generations now gone in a united anthem of praise to the Lord.

Well, in the last week, we've had an opportunity to sing many of the old hymns and gospel songs. Since the Hymn Jams had outgrown our house, we moved to our local church. About thirty folks gathered in the Fellowship Hall of Cambrian Heights Baptist Church in Calgary, Alberta, last Friday night (Feb. 15th), to sing and fellowship in the old-fashioned way. Stories were told about favourite hymn and, as we sang. memories brought on a few tears. Amid the laughter and tears, we had a great time praising the Lord.

Then, on Sunday (Feb. 17), Suzann and I travelled to Evansburg, Alberta, for a cowboy gospel concert. A near capacity crowd of town folks, local ranchers and farmers and, even some cowboys, joined us at the Evansburg Baptist Church for a time of down-home singing, rhymes from the range and a no-frills gospel message. What a time we had in the Lord as we sang, the old hymns, laughed and remembered. Again, there were a lot of smiles and even a few tears, as folks joined in and sang the night away.

We look forward to each of these opportunities. No church is too small or isolated. Every door that opens is another chance to encourage God's people and win the lost to Christ.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann
Songs of Faith Ministries

WINTERING IN!

2008-01-31T15:51:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks!

It's been a long time since I provided folks with an update of our activities. For the most part, we are sticking close to home. If you've been following the weather in Alberta, you know it's been bitterly cold and hiway travel is not recommended. Nevertheless, we set out for the Cowboy Church in St. Albert, Alberta, last Saturday (January 26th). Since we couldn't make the trip in November as planned, this was our first visit to the Church. Over 90 people showed up for the service that night and we had a blessed time of fellowship singing the old hymns and gospel songs, enjoying cowboy poetry and eating. The later seems to be a regular feature of Cowboy Churches on both sides of the border. It turns out that this was the official launch of the their Cowboy Church and, from the show of support, it is off and running.

On Sunday morning we presented some special music and cowboy poetry at Grace Family Church in St. Albert. Attendance was down because of more nasty weather. That didn't stop the folks from singing along and enjoying the cowboy poetry. I was able to introduce my new cowboy poem to a very receptive audience. Our trip home took 2 days, as we got weathered-in when we reached Wetaskiwan, Alberta. By Tuesday, however, the roads were bare and we made it back to Cochrane without incident.

Now, we are looking forward to having several weeks at home before hitting the road again. Evansburg Baptist Church, Evansburg, Alberta, has invited us to present a cowboy gospel concert on Sunday evening February 17th. Hopefully, the weather and the roads will be better for travel. In the meantime, we'll keep busy at our home church, Cambrian Heights Baptist Church, where we now serve as a deacon family.

On the trail for Him,

Mike and Suzann Burns
Songs of Faith Ministries

Keepin' Busy

2007-11-20T10:03:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks!

Finally, we're getting caught up with the work around the house. The yard is cleaned up for the winter and all the outdoor furniture has been put away until next year. Why, we've even started painting the inside of the house. I know it won't be finished by Christmas, but it's a good start. So, things are sure shaping up around the old home place.

We've integrated back into Cambrian Heights, our home church. Singing and playing with the worship teams and helping out wherever and whenever we can. It's sure good to be back on familiar range. Over the winter, we try to stay close to Cochrane with the ministry. This month (November) we will be presenting special music at the Clearwater Cowboy Church, Caroline, Alberta, anniversary service. Also, we've been invited to present a program of cowboy gospel music and poetry at the cowboy church in St. Albert, Alberta.

Our 2008 tours are now in the works. We've had contact with a number of pastors in the U.S. and, continue to look to the Lord to open the doors for the ministry. Pray with us that His will be done in our lives.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

From the Home Office

2007-11-05T09:06:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks;

It's been a couple of weeks since my last entry. Today I'm sitting in the home office looking out the window at the first snowfall of the season. The sun is shining on the mountains, which are white with snow. What a beautiful sight. In the past weeks, we've been to Winnipeg to celebrate my brother's 60th birthday. We also made time to visit with some friends in Regina. Now, it's back to work putting the 2008 program together. I need to learn some new songs and write some new cowboy poems. Keep praying for Songs of Faith as we book our schedule for next year.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

THANKS AGAIN

2007-10-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Now that we’re back in Cochrane, I thought I’d review the “toings and froings” of Songs of Faith Ministries during 2007.

It has been an incredible year. We’ve had some really great opportunities to minister. Our travels have taken us to cowboy poetry gatherings, churches and concerts in Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Nebraska, Kansas and Saskatchewan. We’ve also had opportunities to sing at RV parks, school assemblies and senior centres in some of these states. So, we’ve seen a lot of country.

Our ministry has expanded beyond cowboy poetry gatherings and special music presentations this year. We have begun to present full cowboy gospel concerts as outreach events for local churches. Folks who attend these concerts, sing the old gospel hymns and songs and hear cowboy gospel poetry. Without exception, the response has been positive. I guess there is a little bit of cowboy in everyone.

We’re looking forward to spending time at home and, worshiping in our home church after so many weeks away. Thank you to so many of you for your prayers as we traveled this year.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

Back Home Again

2007-10-04T11:06:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

The past two weeks have been very busy. Our stay in Salmon, ID, was a real blessing. Sunday morning we presented some special music and cowboy gospel poetry at the Salmon Valley Baptist Church. We had a great time worshiping and fellowshiping with the folks in the congregation. That evening we drove to the Lemhi River Cowboy Church in Lemhi, ID, for a Mexican potluck supper and a cowboy church service. The Lemhi Grange Hall serves as the location for the church and is an ideal venue. Farmers, ranchers, cowboys and, even a few town folks packed the the hall for the service. The old hymns, gospel songs and cowboy poetry seemed to find resonance in this setting. What a way to end our fall tour and, what a special blessing for Suzann and I.

We were able to spend a few days in Salmon, before heading to Dillon, MT, for their annual Cowboy Poetry Rendezvous. The Salmon Valley Baptist Church has a parking spot for trailers, including a sewer hookup and we were quite comfortable during our stay. At the Dillon Gathering, in addition to the regular day time shows, I was able to perform in the evening shows and conduct the cowboy church service on Sunday morning. This is a real cowboy gathering and we were able to catch up with old friends and make new ones. As the gathering ended, we looked forward to being back in Cochrane and with our friends at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church in Calgary.

Coming off the trail is always hard, but we've looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us in 2008. We have made many contacts and can hardly wait for the Lord to open new doors for our ministry. As we close out this tour, we are reminded that a lot of folks are praying for us. There is no doubt in our minds that this is why we stay safe on the road and have all of our needs met. Please, continue to pray that the Lord will direct our paths and keep us on the trail for His Glory.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

Back In Idaho

2007-09-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, we're back in Idaho and cooler temperatures. Fall has arrived in the mountains. We've been busy. Although we only traveled a short distance from Green River, WY, with the mid-week service in Rock Springs, WY, it made for a full week.

Although the Circle C Cowboy Church in Rock Springs is struggling, there is a good group of folks on which to grow the work in the future. We parked the trailer by the pastor's house and had an opportunity to share our experience with cowboy churches and, hopefully, offer some positive feedback of encouragement. Of late, this interaction with pastors is becoming a very important part of our ministry.

After Rock Springs, it was on to Downey, ID, and the Marsh Valley Bible Church. While our stay in Downey was short, we were able to visit with the pastor and his family. There are a number of small works in this part of Idaho and, most are looking for pastors. Join us in praying that the Lord will raise up workers for these churches. Sunday morning service was well attended and, we even met up with some folks who had been to our concerts in the past. Now that there are "groupies", the pressure is on to learn some new songs and write a few more cowboy poems. That will have to be my winter project.

For the next few days, we will be parked in Shelley, ID, and, then it's off to Salmon, ID, for two cowboy gospel services. Then the tour will be nearly over and, it will be time to head home. Thanks to all of you who have been praying for us, while we've been on the trail. The Lord willing, we hope to able to share our stories with you when next we meet.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

News From Rock Springs, Wyoming

2007-09-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Looks like we've about turned the corner on this tour and are slowly heading home. Seems like it was only yesterday that we left Cochrane and now it's time to turn the outfit north. We've met some wonderful folks, enjoyed the Christian fellowship, rejoiced in the Lord's handiwork and received more blessings than we can count. God is sure good!

The services at Emmanuel Baptist in Rock Springs, WY, surpassed all our expectations. Both services (8:30 and 11:00 a.m.) were full, as the church folk came out in number to support our ministry. Because we did not have to rush away after the services, we had time to visit and share our witness. In all, it was a very enjoyable time and, Suzann and I felt blessed to have had the opportunity to minister to these folks.

We head for Green River, WY, and the Circle C Cowboy Church later this week. This is a new work and we are looking forward to sharing with these folks. There is a high degree of anticipation about our coming and we are praying that this will be an outreach event to bring new people into the church. Join us in prayer and let's expect great things from God!

For the rest of this tour, we will be ministering at churches for the first time. While return visits are always nice and comfortable, it's exciting to plow new ground. Everywhere we travel, folks respond enthusiastically to the old hymns, gospel songs and cowboy poetry. Keep us in your prayers!

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

Cookin' In Wyoming

2007-09-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

For the last week we have been cookin' in 90 degree weather here in Lander. The good news is that it cools down at night, which makes for good sleeping weather. The air conditioner has been working overtime. With little rain (I think a few drops fell last Friday), it sure is a dry country.

The cowboy gospel concert at the Warm Valley Baptist Church in Pavillion, WY, was a real family affair. Folks from the community and surrounding area gathered for the concert at 6 p.m. and stayed for a full course roast beef supper after the concert. The church building is made of logs and the interior is all knotty pine. Why, they even have a rack by the front door for all the cowboy hats. The church has grown since last year and, we enjoyed catching up with how the Lord has been working. A hilight this year was the vacation bible school, where 14 young people accepted the Lord as their personal Saviour. Pavillion only has a population of 126, but God has raised up a strong witness in that community.

We had planned to move on the Rock Springs, WY, early this week but there were no spots open in the RV parks. Wyoming is like Alberta in terms of the oil boom, housing is in short supply. As a result, we will stay in Lander until Friday (Sept. 7) and park on the church parking lot for a couple of nights in Rock Springs. Emmanuel Baptist has two services on Sunday morning, so it will be necessary to set up the sound system on Saturday. This will be our first visit to Emmanual and we are looking forward to fellowshiping with these folks.

That's about it for this week. Time is slipping by and we are almost half way through this tour. While it will be good to be home, we are excited about sharing the Gospel message in Idaho and Montana. Your prayers are greatly appreciated as we minister in song and poem, the cowboy way.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

Still In Lander, WY

2007-08-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Looks like we've settled in to life in the trailer. This week we are parked in Lander, WY. It's central to churches we will visit in this area. So, we plan on staying here until we move to Rock Springs, WY, around September 3rd.

The cowboy concert at the Lander Valley Baptist Church was a real blessing. Since it was our second visit, we had a good time meeting up with folks who had been praying for us over the past year. We were also able to join them for the Sunday morning worship service. I presented some special music and, of course, some of my cowboy wisdom! Seems folks enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the old hymns and stories. They had the traditional celebration dinner after the service and, we really enjoyed the time of fellowship.

The need in this area is self-evident. Many small communities have no gospel witness. Without question, the cowboy state sure needs more cowboy churches. In my discussions with pastors and church leaders, they all agree with my observations but, are frustrated by the the lack of church planters. Pray for us as we travel about the area and, please pray that the Lord will raise up workers to meet the need in the cowboy state.

As we start the third week of our tour, we are ever remindful of God's blessings. Each door He opens is an adventure, as we follow the trail He has set before us. Keep us in your prayers!

On the trail,

Mike and Suyzann

From the Wyoming Front

2007-08-21T10:27:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks;
We've been on the trail now for a week and, it seems like had never been home. Life in the trailer is sure becoming routine. We took an extra day on the drive to Riverton, WY, and spent a night in Cody, WY. If there was ever a place to have a cowboy church, Cody would be ideal. I planted the seed in the ear of the Director of Missions for that area. He agreed and promised to follow up with the pastor of the local SB church.

The gathering in Riverton was smaller than usual. Because of the gas prices, all of the other performers were from Wyoming. Talk about stress, I had to represent the whole country of Canada.

The cowboy church service at the United Baptist Church in Riverton was very special. I had filled their pulpit for three weeks last year and we had made quite a few friends. Their new pastor is very keen for the Lord and the church has really begun to grow. Needless to say, we had a fun time and as Suzann says, I got too folksy with the congregation. She calls it dygressing but I call it embellishing.

Ww're looking forward to the next few weeks in the Riverton area. Our concert at the Lander Baptist Church in Lander, Wy, is being well advertised and the pastor is excited about the outreach possibilities it presents. We'll also be back at the little log church in Pavillion, WY, and expect to have another foot stompin' good time singing the old gospel songs and hymns.

As we travel, we continue to hear from folks who have been praying for us. What a blessing to know that we have all that prayerful support.

Well, that's it for now. Keep prayin' and we'll keep singin' and preachin'.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

SADDLED UP AND READY TO GO

2007-08-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

This will probably be my last posting before we hit the trail again. Our plans are to leave August 14th for Riverton, WY. The annual Wind River Cowboy Poetry Gathering takes place from August 17th to 18th. This will be our third visit in as many years and, we are looking forward to greeting old friends and meeting new ones. The old bass (now called Stella) gets a real workout, but it sure is fun.

While in Riverton, we will minister at several Southern Baptist churches in the area. These will be return visits and we are looking forward to the fellowship with the pastors and the folks in their congregations. Last Sunday, I had a chance to try out my new cowboy poem at Cambrian Heights Baptist Church in Calgary. It was well received and reinforced the need for Christians to reach out to the lost.

Suzann is progressing slowly and more feeling is returning to her right side. Folks have commented that she hasn't lost her sunny disposition. No doubt, her postive attitude will speed up her recovery. Thank you to everyone who prayed for her and we would ask that you continue to pray for her complete recovery.

The time we've been able to spend in Cochrane has been brief but enjoyable. Taking the time to rest between tours was absolutely necessary. But now, we are eager to get back on the road sharing our witness wherever the Lord opens the door.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

RESTIN' AND RELAXIN'

2007-07-31T16:23:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks;

We've been back in Cochrane for a few weeks and have taken the time to rest and relax before hitting the trail again. As some of you know, Suzann suffered a mini-stroke while we were in Nebraska. She spent a week in the hospital in Calgary undergoing some tests. Fortunately, there was no permanent damage, but it will take several months before she is back to normal. Thanks to all of you who prayed for her recovery.

Since we've been home, I entertained at the stampede breakfast at the Westland Community Church near Cochrane, provided special music anc cowboy gospel poetry at the Ranchland MD Cowboy Church near Longview, Alberta and this Sunday (Aug 5th) will be at our home church, Cambrian Heights Baptist Church in Calgary conducting the morning worship service.

All the available dates for our fall tour are full. We are booked into churches in Wyoming and Idaho and have been invited to Cowboy Poetry Gatherings in Riverton, WY and Dillon, MT. Check out our itinerary on www.songsoffaithministries.com and if you're in the area, drop in to a service. We'd love to see you.

We'll be starting to pack up the trailer for a departure date of August 14th. Pray for our safe travel and, especially, that the Lord will continue to meet our every need.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

Back In Canada

2007-06-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, we're back in Canada and cooler weather! After the heat and humidity of Nebraska, the moderate temperature of Saskatchewan is most welcome. The strange noise I heard last night was our furnace warming up the trailer. Even had to dig out a sweatshirt, when I walked MacDuff this morning.

Our last concert in Burwell, Nebraska, with the gospel quartet, Living Sacrifice, was inspiring and high energy. The mix of music and styles worked very well according to folks in the audience. I interjected some poems and stories into the program and was able to interact with the audience, as well as individual members of the quartet. It was hard to estimate the size of the crowd, as folks stayed in the cars around the edge of the park. We do know that the Gospel was presented and an invitation given.

We're now parked in White City, just outside of Regina, for a few days. On the weekend, we'll move to the Discovery Baptist Church parking lot to set up and get ready fo Sunday. The pastor will be at the CCSB convention in Vancouver, so they've asked for a concert. Interestingly, this will be our first exposure to a Canadian Southern Baptist Church, other than Cambrian Heights of course. As many of you know, we've been praying for the past two years that God would open the doors in Canada, just as He has in the United States. I'm reminded of my song "Just In Time" and, trust that this might be the answer to our prayers. In any case, as long as the Lord leads, we'll keep sharing our witness and the Gospel story, wherever and whenever He opens the door.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

On The Homeward Trail

2007-06-18T09:30:00.001-07:00

Howdy folks!

For those of you who have been following our tour, we are still camped in Stromsburg, NE. During the past week, we used the time to rest and reorganize for the last two weeks of our tour. We also took in the annual Swedish Festival (Stromsburg is the Swede capital of Nebraska) and enjoyed fellowshipping with folks who had been to our concerts in years past. In all, it was a good week and just what we needed to recharge our batteries.

We'll be leaving Stromsburg this week for Burwell, NE. Saturday night (June 23rd), Songs of Faith will be partnering with Living Sacrifice, a southern gospel quartet for a concert in the park. The musical mix should make for an interesting concert. After the concert in Burwell, we head for Regina, Saskatchewan, and the Discovery Baptist Church for a Sunday morning service on July 1st. We are looking forward to worshipping with the congregation before heading home to Cochrane.

Since leaving home in April, the Lord has opened the doors to minister in a variety of places. Without exception, folks have been very receptive to the gospel message, either in song or poem, and invitations to return have been forthcoming wherever we traveled. While we are looking forward to being home, even for a short time, our hearts are on the trail sharing the gospel story, the cowboy way.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

Hot and Humid in Nebraska

2007-06-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

I forgot how hot and humid Nebraska can be. Temperatures in the high 80s and humidity in the high 90s all last week. Throw in a few tornado watches and warnings, with wind gusts up to 60 mph and life in a travel trailer gets real exciting. Every morning I'd check to see it the trailer was still where we'd parked it the night before.

Sunday was another busy day, as we traveled to Central City, NE, for two concerts. In the morning, we were at the Grace Lutheran Church and in the evening at the First Christian Church. Both concerts attracted a number of visitors and, we were able to share our witness as folks inquired about our ministry. The old hymns and the cowboy poems sure open up an avenue to present to gospel, wherever we travel.

It doesn't seem possible, but we are already booking churches for our fall tour. Inquiries have come in from Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It looks like we will have some new opportunities to minister in these states. Each time we step out in faith, we marvel at how the Lord has provided and protected each step of the way. As we start our homeward journey, with stops in Burwell, NE, and Regina, Saskatchewan, we ask for your prayers. Suzann and I are getting a little trail weary, so keep praying for us as we hear for home.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

Another Week On the Trail

2007-06-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!
It's hard to believe we've been on the road nearly two months. We've sure put quite a few miles on our outfit and met a lot of great folks. Along the way, we've collected a memory or two and experienced first-hand God's blessing as we shared the Gospel.

Last Sunday, we were in Ericson, Nebraska, a small ranching community and home to the Sandhills Baptist Fellowship. This was our second visit to the church and it was evident that God was blessing this congregation. Their new building is almost debt free and their numbers are growing, howbeit, slowly. As we visit and revisit these small churches, God's handiwork is apparent. Having the opportunity to hear their stories, reinforces our desire to continue this ministry.

We will be able to stay parked in Stormsburg, NE, for the next few weeks and drive to the area churches. Not having to set up the trailer every week will be a welcome relief. We are, however, getting better at planning our itinerary and allowing plenty of time to set up the trailer, as well as the sound system. This also makes touring a lot easier and less stressful!

Well, that's it for this week. Next Sunday we have a "double header" in Central City, NE. We are looking forward to renewing friendships and meeting new folks at both services.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

On To Nebraska

2007-05-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Since I last wrote and entry, we have traveled from Montana to Nebraska via Wyoming and Kansas. Before we left White Sulphur Springs, MT, in addition to our scheduled concerts, we had a gospel sing at the RV Park and the local senior's home. The opportunities to get involved in these community activities gives us the chance to share our witness with a larger audience.

The festival in Cedar, Kansas, was a steller event. Performers from as far south as Texas, picked and sang for three days and long into the night. We quickly made some new friends and received invitations to visit their churches on our next tour. Cowboy Church was organized by the folks from the Cedar Community Church. During the service, there were several opportunities to present the gospel in song and poem. This is the reason we're "on the trail" and we thank the Lord that are able to serve in this way.

We're now parked in Stromsburg, Nebraska, getting organized to the last leg of our tour. Now that we are headed north, we are looking forward to being home and fellowshipping with our friends. This has been a very full tour and we are well aware of the prayerful support undergirding our ministry.

Keep praying!

Mike and Suzann

What A Week We've Had!

2007-05-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks
What a week! Seems like we never stopped 'till the last hymn was sung at cowboy church. Our schedule included teaching 10 music classes to students from grades 1 to 12, participation in 2 school assemblies, day time performances at both evening performances at the Gathering and, of course, cowboy church. In addition to all that, the old stand-up bass got a real workout.

Sitting here in White Sulphur Springs, Montana, it's hard to believe we've already been on the trail for over a month. Sometimes, we've not been sure what will be around the next bend, but we're trusting that the Lord will keep us in the center of the action. Given the past month, it looks like our prayers are sure gonna be answered.

Although we planned on having a rest before heading to Kansas, it looks like the folks at the RV Park and the local nursing home want some entertainment. It's a good thing we brought along our song books for a good old fashioned gospel sing-a-long. These impromptu opportunities to share the Gospel are often hilights of our witness in a community.

The weather is starting to warm up in Montana and, except for our daily wind storm, is quite pleasant. The Lord continues to bless our ministry as we reach out to folks in these small rural communities. So, keep praying.

On the trail,

Mike and Suzann

Movin' On To Montana

2007-05-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks;

Our last weekend in Idaho was very busy! Saturday night we joined forces with a preacher from Texas to present a Gospel concert. Sunday morning found us at the local Southern Baptist Church in Blackfoot, Idaho, to provide some special music. After the service, we packed up the sound system and drove to the Cowboy Church in Firth, Idaho. At the Cowboy Church, I had the opportunity to talk with the organizers concerning their vision for reaching the rural community for Christ. Although the congregation was small, the folks sure could sing and were enthusiastic about their witness for Christ. We left Idaho tired, but rejoicing in the opportunities the Lord had provided to share the Gospel.

The next stop on our tour is White Sulphur Springs, Montana. I'll be teaching the high school kids to write cowboy songs and performing at the Motherin' Up Gathering on the weekend. There'll be a Cowboy Church service on Sunday, pray that the Lord will open up the people's hearts to hear the Gospel through the old hymns and cowboy poems.

As Suann and I visit these small rural churches, we are blessed by the zeal and commitment of these folks. Their love for the Lord is sure evident, as they reach out to their communities with the Gospel message. We covet your prayers, as we extend our ministry to even smaller congregations.

On the trail,
Mike and Suzann

Magic Valley Memories

2007-05-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

On the weekend, we drove across Idaho's Magic Valley to the Hagerman Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Folks turned out in good numbers and, by all accounts, it was a great success. I had the opportunity to perform on both Friday and Saturday nights and, to share the stage with some outstanding performers.

The Cowboy Church service after the Gathering was held in the Bliss Community Church, Bliss, Idaho. It is the only church in town (pop.298) and has a strong Gospel witness. I teamed up with Bob Jackson, a Christian cowboy poet from Idaho, to lead the service. It was a real blessing to share out gospel songs and poems with the congregation. Following the Pator's message, several folks responded to his invitation to accept Christ as their personal Saviour.

After nearly three weeks on the road, we now have our "trailer legs", and have adjusted to living in a confined space. Continue to pray for us as we travel. Without the prayers of God's people, our ministry would be in vain.

Until next week,

Mike and Suzann

Still Singin' and Pickin'

2007-04-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!
We're starting into our second week and we've already done six performances. Suzann has made it her mission to hand out the cowboy tracts and there are not too many folks get by the product table without getting a few.

The SB church in St. Anthony held a fellowship after the morning service and I presented a short concert of gospel songs and cowboy poems. Hopefully, next year they can organize an outreach event. Now that they know more about our ministry, this is a real possibility.

This weekend we're heading to the Hagerman, Idaho, Cowboy Poets Gathering and a Cowboy Church service at Bliss. It will be the first time for either of these events in the area. Pray, particularly, for the Cowboy Church service as the gospel is presented in song and poem.

On the trail for Jesus,

Mike and Suzann

Parked and Ready to Go

2007-04-17T17:13:00.001-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, here we are parked in Blackfoot, Idaho. The trip down was uneventful. A lttle windy and cold, but we had good roads all the way.

Our first Sunday was sure busy. The first service was on the Fort Hall Reservation at the Mountain View Baptist Church. These folks sure like to sing the old hymns. I wanted to stop singing and just listen. After the service, we drove about 100 km to the people. We were amazed at the progress of their building program. Nearly 60 people, including some who had never been to the church before, showed up for the service, and it was a grand time of singing and fellowship.

We'll be moving the trailer to St. Anthony for the Cowboy Poetry Gathering on the weekend. This year we hope to be able to participate in a Cowboy Church Service at the local Southern Baptist Church. This will be the first for the Gathering and a wonderful time to share the Gospel.

Please continue to pray for us as we travel. Particularly, that we stay healthy and the the Lord will enable us to continue this ministry for His honour and glory.

On the Trail,

Mike and Suzann Burns

On the Cowboy Trail 2007

2007-04-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks!

This is my first blog and, according to my son, I am now a big blogger. Evelyn Marinoski, my webmaster guru, told me to send out a blog before we left in case I was having any trouble. Well, here it is.

We leave tomorrow morning (April 11th) for the start of our tour. Our first services will be in Blackfoot and Moore, Idaho, on Sunday, April 15th. We've been to both of these churches before and are looking forward to being back with these folks. The trailer is nearly packed and ready to go, just a few more groceries and clothes to put in. With the weather, we are going to take more winter clothes just to be on the safe side.

Got a call from Idaho last night telling us that the CDs and tracks have arrived. We ordered another 500 of the cowboy tracks from Ronnie Hill Ministries. Hopefully, that will get us through the first tour.

Well, that's it for my first blog. I have to get busy loading the trailer so that we can leave tomorrow morning. Please pray for us as we start this ministry tour.

Mike and Suzann

Welcome to Mike & Suzann's Blog!

2007-04-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

Mike and Suzann are about to set off on another trip to share the gospel western style. This blog will make it possible for them to keep us updated on their travels and allow us to encourage them along the way too. So come back often to see where they're at, and then add your post of encouragement too!

Blessings,
Evelyn (their webmaster)