Ray Family Update from February 2023

Dear Praying Friends,

Are we there yet? I faintly remember asking this question anytime I would be in the car for a long journey as a child. Now, I constantly hear Isaac ask it when we get in the car to travel any distance. The question reminds me of the cry of God’s people for ages…“How long?” I, too, want to know that! I know we are not there yet, but I sure want to be and I want to know how long until we are there. Obviously, I am taking by faith the words of Paul to be true when he said that it was “far better” to be with Christ than to be here. In a small number of ways, it is hard to imagine how heaven could possibly be better than here. In a vastly larger number of ways, it would be difficult to imagine how heaven could not possibly be worlds better than here. Either way, I hope it is not long!

Meanwhile, here in Knoxville, we are neck-deep in renovations. We have already accomplished so much in a short amount of time, but we truthfully have so much more to go. We are currently working on phase one of three phases. For those who have been with us in times past, we tore out some of the front rooms of the auditorium that made the platform area a recessed cave. We have reframed the front walls and platform and we have to finish out all the coverings, trim, and drywall mudding. We could not believe the sound difference on our first Sunday with the new layout. Several of our folks who struggled to hear in times past could clearly hear the singing and preaching and that was without the use of any speakers. What an answer to prayer!!! That being said, please continue to pray that the Lord would provide the funds and stamina to bring this project to its desired end.

By way of announcements, two matters of importance need to be mentioned here. First, the Antioch Bible conference is just three months away and we are accepting registrations for those who plan to attend. With the renovations, some additional seating has opened up; however, the sooner expectant attendees can register the better. We are extremely excited about this year’s conference and we are attempting some things this year that we have never attempted before. Make plans to attend and let us know that you are coming. Second, we are moving all of our sermons and classes to a subscription only basis. There is no cost to subscribe, but those who wish to continue to see new content from Antioch will need to subscribe.

Lastly, please pray for our upcoming travel/meetings. In April, we travel to Northmont Baptist Church in Statesville, NC. In June, we travel to Mount Pleasant, WI, to be at Blessed Hope Baptist Church. In July, we will be at Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea, MI, followed by me traveling to Manitoba, Canada, to be at Golden Plains Baptist Church. In August, I travel to Charlevoix, MI, to preach at Northwoods Baptist camp. As other meetings get scheduled, we will pass the word along and hope that you will pray with and for us.