# Navigators Encore

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## Posts

- [Blog](https://navencore.org/blog/)
- [What, Me Worry About Retirement Finances?](https://navencore.org/2024/02/06/what-me-worry-about-retirement-finances/): Now that our fundraising days have mostly passed, are Encore staff and missionary retirees “done with money”? Can we breathe a sigh of relief? Only partially! We must be vigilant to avoid financial complacency or follow dangerous cultural trends in finances. Here are five important financial issues for Encore staff and retirees: Overspending on adult children (or grandchildren)! Studies show
- [David Brown Devotional – Senior Staff Gathering, June 8th 2023](https://navencore.org/2023/07/06/david-brown-devotional-senior-staff-gathering-june-8th-2023/): Watch a devotional from the 2023 Senior Staff Gathering.
- [Like a Child Again](https://navencore.org/2023/05/27/like-a-child-again/): I wrote the following poem while in the throes of language study during my first year in our appointed country. My wife, teenage daughter, and I moved overseas in a faith response to our sense of God’s calling. Our vision was to establish a healthy generational ministry there, starting with college students and a few
- [Lingering or Languishing?](https://navencore.org/2021/08/11/lingering-or-languishing/): Languishing or lingering? A similar phrase caught my eye recently as I thought about this past year and the effects of the pandemic. Am I languishing in my time with God, or am I lingering and enjoying His presence? I like to start each morning with sitting and staring, with quiet, listening, lingering. It readies me to read; it readies
- [Meddling and Me](https://navencore.org/2021/04/05/meddling-and-me/): Every January, I ask God to give me a word that describes the focus He has for me that year. This year my word—a phrase, actually—is pull back. I believe He wants me to pull back from things that are not in line with His purpose for me. God continues to clarify for me how He defines
- [The Stability of Our Times](https://navencore.org/2021/03/23/the-stability-of-our-times/): Our friendship with Sandy started when she was a student at the University of Illinois in 1972. She has been a gift to us ever since. Her heart for God and her love for others have continued to shine through all the chapters of her life. Jump ahead 27 years to 1999, a busy year
- [Generations of Disciples Across Decades and Miles](https://navencore.org/2021/03/09/generations-of-disciples-across-decades-and-miles/): Xiao Mei* started following Jesus while attending a university in Australia and was initially discipled by Navigators there. When she returned to her home in a “closed country” in Asia, she met Lou Choat, who began to mentor her spiritually. They would pray together, read through the Bible together, and walk through Life-to-Life® for over 35 years. Then Lou and her
- [Finding Your Zaccheus](https://navencore.org/2021/02/01/finding-your-zaccheus/): A key discipleship question is, “Whom should I invest in?” For those who would like to disciple others, coming alongside to help them take the next step in their spiritual journey, the initial question is not what, but with whom? When my discretionary time is limited, I need discernment to invest wisely. I want to avoid investing in
- [What Every Navigator Should Know About Learning](https://navencore.org/2020/11/03/what-every-navigator-should-know-about-learning/): Navigators make disciples. All we do revolves around making disciples—learners. I cannot help another to learn, though, what I have not learned myself. As I pass on what I have learned, life to life, I need to continue to learn as well. “Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights” (Proverbs
- [The Beauty of Nothing](https://navencore.org/2020/10/14/the-beauty-of-nothing/): As we arrived at our cabin last summer, the weather report predicted several rainy days. That was good news for me. I just wanted to sit, to be, to do nothing! Nothing seemed good. The account of creation recorded in Genesis reports, In the beginning God created . . . .The earth was formless and empty . . . .And the Spirit of God was
- [Abiding: What? It's Not All About Me?](https://navencore.org/2020/09/03/abiding-what-its-not-all-about-me/): I’m delighted with our Navigator emphasis on abiding in Jesus. I can’t think of anything that I would rather see placed first in our personal and organizational priorities. The articles and videos in NavWeekly have been wonderfully helpful and uplifting. As we think of the tremendous privilege of living in Christ, I want to suggest a parallel
- [Controlled Flexibility](https://navencore.org/2020/08/04/controlled-flexibility/): I sat on our deck as a thunderstorm passed through Kansas City. The sky darkened, followed by a gentle rain, followed by gusting winds and heavier rain. As I observed the trees in our backyard that had only recently leafed out, I saw in nature what I see in our culture. The storms and winds
- [Coronial Confessions](https://navencore.org/2020/06/18/coronial-confessions/): The coronavirus restrictions are changing me. Good things are resulting from staying at home. These are re-setting weeks. God's Spirit is with me, making itself known in the quietness of these at-home days. When the pandemic has passed, I hope I don't return to my former ways! Many of the “ahas” I'm observing rest in
- [Creating a Birthday to Remember](https://navencore.org/2020/04/15/creating-a-birthday-to-remember/): Part of our ministry centers around our neighborhood. We have had the privilege of reaching out to many young couples. Recently I have loved using A Woman's Journey of Discipleship Navigator studies with two young moms in our cul-de-sac. We praise God that one of them, “Mary,” accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior about a month ago. The
- [His Promises Still Stand](https://navencore.org/2020/03/30/his-promises-still-stand/): These are difficult times. And it is in difficult times that the promises of God are proven! I have been reading in Joshua recently. As he approached the end of his life, he made this amazing statement: And now I am about to go the way of all the earth, and you know in your
- [We Still Need Older Women!](https://navencore.org/2020/02/05/we-still-need-older-women/): “Older women still need older women.” I don’t remember when I first wrote those words in my journal. As I’ve continued my journey and can now claim “older”status, I know for sure that God whispered an important truth to me that day, and it has resonated ever since. Discipleship—encouraging others in their walk with God—is not
- [Discipleship Is Like An Ocean Liner](https://navencore.org/2020/01/07/discipleship-is-like-an-ocean-liner/): Are you on a spiritual cruise ship or an ocean liner? The terms “cruise ship” and “ocean liner” are often used interchangeably. However, while both are types of passenger ships, there is a difference. An ocean liner is a ship designed to transport passengers from point A to point B. The classic example of such a voyage would be
- [Urgency or Priority?](https://navencore.org/2019/12/04/urgency-or-priority/): Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important. The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.
- [The Challenge of Change](https://navencore.org/2019/11/01/the-challenge-of-change/): Marilyn Gnekow had learned a lot about adjusting to change in her four decades on Navigators staff. But this one was a doozy! She’d always longed to be married—to do life and ministry with a soulmate—and never sensed God tell her to let the dream die. But as she reached her 70s, she began to
- [16 Small Doses of Courage](https://navencore.org/2019/10/15/16-small-doses-of-courage/): We all need encouragement. As blogger Jared Olivetti says, “Regardless of what our hearts or Hollywood tell us, no one inherently has the strength needed to do what God calls us to do.” God knows our need and provides a remedy for it: encouragement from others. The word encouragement is built around the word courage. I like to think that when
- [Take Aim](https://navencore.org/2019/08/30/take-aim/): If you asked for a description of the sun and were told it is “a little round object in the sky,” that would be correct but not very precise. This description might be adequate for a child, but not for a student of astronomy. But consider this option from Wikipedia: The Sun is the star at the center of
- [What Does It Mean to Abide? A Video with Jean Fleming](https://navencore.org/2019/08/20/what-does-it-mean-to-abide-a-video-with-jean-fleming/): In this beautiful six-minute video, beloved Navigator disciplemaker, speaker, and author Jean Fleming talks about her journey of abiding in Christ. Jean describes how abiding leads to fruitfulness as we nourish our connection to Jesus, the Vine. Click here to view it.
- [SPOTLIGHT: Why Bob Lovvorn Went to Prison](https://navencore.org/2019/08/13/spotlight-why-bob-lovvorn-went-to-prison/): Encore staff Bob Lovvorn never dreamed he would go to prison. Yet several years ago he did—willingly, eager to tell the men he met there about the life-changing power of knowing Jesus. Bob and his wife, Betty, moved to Canyon City, Colorado, in 2012 to be closer to family. The two looked for an opportunity to
- [SPOTLIGHT:  Living Beyond Limits](https://navencore.org/2019/07/19/spotlight-living-beyond-limits/): Most of us will experience seasons where our ability to serve God as we want to will be limited—by health, family needs, or other circumstances. In those times, Encore staff Donna Puleo has learned not to dwell on the limitations, but to ask, “How do I use what I do have?”Due to her husband’s progressive illness, for
- [Boundaries, Limits, and Self-Control](https://navencore.org/2019/07/12/boundaries-limits-and-self-control/): We live in a culture that’s constantly pushing its boundaries. More and more it seems as if there are “no limits.” Yet is this true for Jesus’ followers today? It’s not just present-day culture. Throughout history mankind has tended to push the known limits. Discoveries in medicine, space, oceans, and the human cell have resulted
- [Five Lessons the Pediatric-ICU Taught Me](https://navencore.org/2019/05/19/five-lessons-the-pediatric-icu-taught-me/): Editor’s Note: The following is from Sue Tell’s weekly blog at suetell.com.Two years ago this month, the text came. Ezra suffered a seizure and is in the ER. Twelve weeks in pediatric-ICU, five ambulance rides, and four hospitals later Ezra came home. Many of my blog readers continue to ask about our precious "grand." Thank you so much.
- [Counter-Cultural Living](https://navencore.org/2019/05/01/counter-cultural-living/): “I’m not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one” (John 17:15, NLT). "Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE," says the Lord. "AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN" (2 Corinthians 6:17, NASB). How does a disciple of Christ live “in” the world but not
- [In the Valley of Shadow](https://navencore.org/2019/04/26/in-the-valley-of-shadow/): The small “stroke” in Bill’s optic nerve came suddenly and unannounced. When he woke up that Tuesday morning in March 2018, his left eye saw large, dark shapes moving around. Our ophthalmologist quickly made room in his schedule to see Bill and discovered a swollen optic nerve. He ordered a series of tests, but none provided
- [SPOTLIGHT: Free to Be Flexible](https://navencore.org/2019/04/12/spotlight-free-to-be-flexible/): For Gene and Marilyn Smith, Navigators Encore is now the ideal place to pursue their callings from God. The Smiths loved their 43 years serving with the Military Mission, serving in Colorado Springs, the Philippines, Guam, and their longtime present home in San Diego. Yet they also sensed God tug at their hearts to have a broader ministry and more freedom
- [Through Seasons of Suffering—Video From David Brown](https://navencore.org/2019/04/04/through-seasons-of-suffering-video-from-david-brown/): Suffering and loss are part of life. How can we live in these painful seasons with our faith intact, in a way that honors God?David Brown addressed these issues at the Senior Staff Luncheon, held in Colorado Springs in February. He offered a biblical response to suffering and loss based on Romans 5:3-5 in The Message. Click
- [SPOTLIGHT: A Perfect Match](https://navencore.org/2019/03/19/spotlight-a-perfect-match/): A tennis ministry is not one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Navigators Encore staff. Yet that is one of the delightful surprises God had in store for Helen Ebert after she relocated from Chicago to the Nashville area seven years ago. Helen moved to Franklin, Tennessee, to be near
- [SPOTLIGHT: The Delight of Discipling Younger Women](https://navencore.org/2019/03/04/spotlight-the-delight-of-discipling-younger-women/): Barb VanZante is thrilled with the ministry God has given her: investing in the lives of young women. “It’s in my DNA,” she says. “I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do.” Barb meets with women who are being trained to do campus ministry at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. They study the Bible,
- [Loving Like Jesus](https://navencore.org/2019/02/04/loving-like-jesus/): Jesus said one mark of discipleship is loving others. He even called it a new commandment. “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other” (John 13:34 NLT). What made this commandment new was not the substance (love people) but the model.
- [Rediscovering Wow](https://navencore.org/2019/01/19/rediscovering-wow/): In “The Gift of Fear,” I pondered whether believers today are losing the fear of God. In this article, let’s see what it means to live with a healthy fear of God: approaching Him with respect, reverent wonder, and awe. When our souls encounter the majesty and glory of God, there can be only one response: “Wow!” We are
- [God's Love Language](https://navencore.org/2019/01/18/gods-love-language/): “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and strength,” was the answer Jesus gave to the question, what is the greatest commandment? But what does loving God look like? Is it simply having positive thoughts or feelings about God? Can we choose how to love God?Our love for God begins with God’s
- [Receive Is a Christmas Word](https://navencore.org/2018/12/11/receive-is-a-christmas-word/): “Oh, you shouldn’t have.” As I was growing up, I often heard those words when a gift was given. Receiving can be hard. But as Christmas is the season of giving, so Christmas must also be the season of receiving. And sometimes, receiving is transformational.As I think about receiving in my life, three instances rise
- [A Disciplemaking Testimony](https://navencore.org/2018/11/20/a-disciplemaking-testimony/): Jack Blanch gave this testimony at the Senior Staff Gathering in October, 2018, about his recent experiences with mentoring. After my wife, Joann, died last December, I was feeling very lost. Around that time Jay Pritchard sent me an email of condolence with the brief words of encouragement, “You still have the gifts.” I was so
- ["We Do Life Together"](https://navencore.org/2018/11/02/we-do-life-together/): On social media, LOL means “laugh out loud.” But for Alice Byram, LOL is short for “life on life.” In a recent interview, Alice talked about how she enjoys “doing life” with Hispanic women in San Antonio. Alice served at Navigator headquarters in Colorado Springs for a dozen years and as director of women’s ministries in
- [The Gift of Fear](https://navencore.org/2018/10/18/the-gift-of-fear/): The Oldsmobile was an American automobile icon. First built in 1897, it sold more than 35 million automobiles over its 107-year history. During the 1980s Olds tried to recapture its declining market by reinventing itself. In 1988 it came out with the slogan, “It’s not your father’s Oldsmobile.” The company tried to reposition the elegant Olds
- [By Our Love](https://navencore.org/2018/10/09/by-our-love/): This article continues a series on what Jesus set as the hallmarks of discipleship. Servant love (John 13:34-35) is the one trait that gives evidence to the world that our apprenticeship is authentic.When Jesus met with His disciples for the Last Supper, He challenged them with a final measure of true discipleship: “So now I am giving
- [Trusting Our Trainer](https://navencore.org/2018/09/06/trusting-our-trainer/): Many of my generation were raised on TV westerns. We learned that a real cowboy could take a wild horse, put him in a corral, saddle him up, then get on. If the cowboy stayed on, eventually the horse would give up and submit to the authority and dominance of a new master. This was called
- [Faithful Obedience](https://navencore.org/2018/09/06/faithful-obedience/): What does it mean to be a disciple—to be an apprentice of Jesus? Jesus clearly stated five traits that characterize His followers. Let’s look at one of them: faithful obedience.In John 8:31-32, Jesus introduces this requirement for being His disciple and promises results to those who are faithful in it: “So Jesus was saying to those Jews
- [Whose Flag Are You Flying?](https://navencore.org/2018/08/08/whose-flag-are-you-flying/): As I have worked on a biblical definition of discipleship, I have discovered some distinctive marks of an apprentice of Christ. These traits are not optional. Neither are they a checklist to be completed—they are lifetime pursuits. We can recognize a true disciple of Jesus when these traits are present and increasingly evident. One of these traits
- [A Quiet Place](https://navencore.org/2018/08/02/a-quiet-place/): It was the last few days of two weeks at Sanctuary, our small cabin buried deep among the pines of the Wet Mountains. It’s the place my husband and I go to refresh and refuel. One day I received texts from two different friends, both sharing their great weariness. They were in the midst of people,
- [The Discipleship Diamond](https://navencore.org/2018/07/26/the-discipleship-diamond/): Success in baseball is simple to explain but much harder to achieve. The number of hits, errors, base runners, or any other of the myriad statistics that go into making baseball interesting do not count in the end. All that really matters is the number of players who touch all four bases in a counterclockwise sequence
- [What's Your Platform?](https://navencore.org/2018/07/19/whats-your-platform/): Isn’t it fascinating that the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts were written by a doctor? Doctor Luke, who also did some traveling with the apostle Paul, has been used by God to inform and inspire countless people through his words and life example. I’m sure Dr. Luke had no idea of the
- [A Plan to Disciple the Nations](https://navencore.org/2018/07/07/a-plan-to-disciple-the-nations/): Jesus’ strategy to disciple the nations was simple—as it had to be. The Kingdom expanded person to person, through family and relational networks. In 250 years, the gospel spread throughout the Roman world and beyond without the aid of political power, military force, financial aid, or educational clout.This was not a new strategy—it was central
- [Humble Pie](https://navencore.org/2018/06/21/humble-pie/): You know, there are some stories that are just so embarrassing you don’t even want to share them. Yet if you do, you not only minister to others, you allow yourself to experience truth. So here goes.It was the mid-eighties. Our church leaders asked me to write a children’s Bible memory program that built from
- [Seeing God in the Garden](https://navencore.org/2018/06/20/seeing-god-in-the-garden/): God designed growing things to teach us Kingdom principles. The garden was Adam’s first job and his first classroom. It can be our classroom as well. The Bible is full of garden imagery: seeds, plants, weeds, pruning watering, harvests. Recently I asked my wife, Marilyn, if she wanted to sit with me in our back yard
- [Our Spiritual Mainsail](https://navencore.org/2018/06/14/our-spiritual-mainsail/): Sailing ships and sailboats are powered by many different types of sails. Some, called mainsails, are essential. Others, such as jibs, topsails, and spinnakers, are added to complement the mainsails. Effective sailing requires knowing how to use each of these sails.As we follow Jesus, certain spiritual disciplines act as mainsails, while others are good complements.
- [Our Need to Receive](https://navencore.org/2018/06/07/our-need-to-receive/): My friend Linda shared a prayer she prayed some time ago: God, I want a closer relationship with you. Help! Amen.She told me that God’s answer was almost immediate. Stop achieving, start receiving.As I’ve pondered this response, it occurred to me that our life with God begins with receiving. “But to all who received him, who believed
- [Our Keel of Faith](https://navencore.org/2018/05/31/our-keel-of-faith/): The keel—the flat blade sticking down into the water from a sailboat’s bottom—is an essential part of every sailboat. It has three functions: It creates forward motion, it prevents the boat from being blown sideways by the wind, and it holds the ballast (counterweight) that keeps the boat right-side up. Pretty simple, right? Also, very essential.Using
- [From Worry to Wisdom](https://navencore.org/2018/05/24/from-worry-to-wisdom/): “Do not be anxious about anything” (Philippians 6:6). This may be one of the most difficult commands in Scripture to follow. Each of us has different concerns. Some of the things we tend to worry about (and shouldn’t) take on different dimensions as we grow older. But the concerns below likely remain on a list you
- [A Portrait of Discipleship](https://navencore.org/2018/05/16/a-portrait-of-discipleship/): “Follow me.” Jesus’ invitation extends far beyond the original Twelve, through the ages and up to the present. What does it mean to be His disciple?A disciple of Jesus should be recognizable in every culture and era. Even the opposition identified the early disciples of Christ: “Now as [the religious leaders] observed the confidence of
- [New Birth in a Nursing Home](https://navencore.org/2018/05/09/new-birth-in-a-nursing-home/): I like talking with older folks. When I retired from working in a local nursing home, it was natural for me to continue relationships with the elderly residents I knew there. I signed up as a volunteer and began visiting once a week to build friendships and, I hoped, to study the Bible with residents. A
- [Deeply Loved](https://navencore.org/2018/05/02/deeply-loved/): The LORD your God is with you,He is mighty to save.He will take great delight in you,He will quiet you with his love,He will rejoice over you with singing.—Zephaniah 3:17, NIVThis verse speaks powerfully of God’s love for us, and shows us three life-changing aspects of that love. It’s one of my favorite verses. As we
- [Finding North](https://navencore.org/2018/04/25/finding-north/): Since the 12th century, the compass has been an essential tool to help travelers find and keep their bearing. Because of the Earth’s magnetic field, the compass points to north no matter where you are on the Earth’s surface.When Jesus called the first disciples, He gave them a compass: “And he said to them, ‘Follow me,
- [A Seed Bursts into Life](https://navencore.org/2018/04/18/a-seed-bursts-into-life/): You never know when a seed you have planted will take root and grow. Just as planting literal seeds doesn’t produce instant results, it sometimes takes patience to see signs of spiritual life. That is true with my friend Barbara. Barbara had come to Pennsylvania from the Dominican Republic with her husband, an expert in
- [God's Glory on Display](https://navencore.org/2018/04/09/gods-glory-on-display/): Do you ever feel like you’re in a wrestling match with life? Are you circling with an opponent who wants to take you down? Or, worse yet, are you in danger of being “pinned” to the mat? When I was in one of those “wrestling” times several years ago, I memorized Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will
- [Remembering Roger Fleming](https://navencore.org/2018/04/03/remembering-roger-fleming/): When Roger Fleming went home to the Lord in late November, he left a legacy that will likely continue for generations. During more than five decades of ministry with The Navigators, he touched countless lives from Asia to the Pacific Northwest to Colorado. Many have been blessed by his wife, Jean’s, tribute to Roger at
- [Capture the Wind!](https://navencore.org/2018/03/22/capture-the-wind/): Until the 1800s, sailing ships were the primary mode of intercontinental transport. No matter what the design, they were entirely dependent on the invisible yet powerful force of the wind. But this free, renewable source of power was productive only if the mast and sails were in good operational condition. The captain’s priority, therefore, was
- [Walking with Someone in Pain](https://navencore.org/2018/03/12/walking-with-someone-in-pain/): As I was cleaning off a bookshelf recently, I came upon a basket full of cards that had poured in after my husband’s death. Later, as I sat down to read them, it sent me back to that time ten years ago when my life had turned upside down. Seeing these words of love warmed
- [Discipleship’s GPS](https://navencore.org/2018/03/05/discipleships-gps/): One of the benefits of GPS technology is the elimination of bulky road maps that, once unfolded, could never be returned to their original state. A cross-country trip required several of these maps.Helpful as those maps were, they couldn’t tell you where you were on the map. Many marriages were threatened (including my own) when
- [Open Your Eyes](https://navencore.org/2018/02/26/open-your-eyes/): While a student at Wheaton College in the late ’60s, I was part of a student ministry team that weekly sought to touch the lives of the homeless with the love of Christ. We would travel by bus to downtown Chicago on Sunday mornings. I’ll never forget being dropped off, walking about a block and then
- [Trusting God for Rest](https://navencore.org/2018/02/19/trusting-god-for-rest/): I was weary . . . weariness stemming from the busyness of a fall that had been physically and emotionally taxing. Yet this gave me more opportunity than ever to apply what I’ve been learning about rest and resiliency in the past year. Living out these lessons felt like diving into deep, refreshing water. I
- [About Pace](https://navencore.org/2018/02/06/about-pace/): Last week I had a small epiphany. For a couple years I have been grumbling about my work schedule and workload. Surely I am working harder than my peers. I have no proof of this, but it gives me an excuse to whine.I will be 70 this year. How did that happen!? Was I not banging on
- [Choosing Well](https://navencore.org/2018/01/26/choosing-well/): At the end of every year, I ask God for a key word to be my focus for the year ahead. My key word for 2017 was rest. In December I asked God what He would select for my 2018 word. The answer came before I said “amen.” After pondering it for a few weeks (Did I
- [Yes to the Shepherd](https://navencore.org/2018/01/19/yes-to-the-shepherd/): Recently, I was privileged to give the eulogy for my friend Joann Blanch at her memorial service. As I thought about her life, I realized it was characterized by saying yes to the invitations in Psalm 23. Saying yes shaped who she was, defined the qualities she lived by, and resulted in blessing everyone she
- [Bringing Truth to Today’s Lost](https://navencore.org/2018/01/12/bringing-truth-to-todays-lost/): For decades now, Navigators have used the Bridge Illustration to help countless men and women put their trust in Jesus. I’m beginning to see, however, that we can no longer rely on such evangelism tools alone. While they were effective in the past, they may not be as helpful in explaining the gospel today, especially
- [What’s on Your T-shirt?](https://navencore.org/2018/01/01/whats-on-your-t-shirt/): As I left the library, a man I had never met stopped me to offer several thoughts about Michigan State University. Not noticing that I was a bit startled, he rattled on, asking how I felt about a man on the MSU Board of Trustees. I did have a few thoughts, so we had a
- [Come and Worship](https://navencore.org/2017/12/27/come-and-worship/): “Oh come, let us worship and bow down;let us kneel before the LORD, our maker!"—Psalm 95:6 I’ve been pondering worship for a long time—years really. Is it merely a synonym for what I do on Sunday morning? Is it only the part of the Sunday morning service that involves singing? My answer is no. Worship is so
- [A Fruitful Life](https://navencore.org/2017/12/07/a-fruitful-life/): I was alone, sitting on the bed in the hotel room. With my Bible open to Philippians and my journal nearby, I sat conversing with God.Suddenly I recalled that six months earlier I had been reading Philippians and was struck by this verse: “If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor
- [A Teachable Spirit](https://navencore.org/2017/12/01/a-teachable-spirit/): “To learn, you must want to be taught.” I love this rendition of Proverbs 12:1 in The Living Bible. It prompts a question in me: To what extent do I have a teachable spirit? As I'm maturing—that is, as I’m growing older—I have to admit it gets easier and easier to resist change. I tend toward getting comfortable and
- [Our Hope, Our Joy](https://navencore.org/2017/11/13/our-hope-our-joy/): Do you have children, grandchildren, or just know a child? If so, you’ll be challenged and inspired by Too Small to Ignore by Wess Stafford, former president and CEO of Compassion International. In this book, Stafford shows how to bring value to children and see them respond. Here’s one inspiring example from the book. Stafford tells about
- [Walk Slowly](https://navencore.org/2017/11/03/walk-slowly/): As a young pastor of a growing church, John Maxwell felt unusually stretched as he went about his duties. There was much more to do than the time he had available. He felt overwhelmed and extended by the demands placed on him. Don’t we all feel this way at times!As he tells the story in The
- [Flourishing at Any Age](https://navencore.org/2017/10/25/flourishing-at-any-age/): Once when family gathered, I asked, “What do you think of when I say, ‘Old Woman’?” My son-in-law said, “White hair. Black coat.” I had to laugh. I fit that concise description. But the critical question is, what comes to my mind when I say, “Old Woman”? Is Old Woman a stage of life I can step
- [How to Avoid the Age Cage](https://navencore.org/2017/10/17/how-to-avoid-the-age-cage/): With the passing years, I find myself using a banker’s vocabulary. I speak of my life in terms of losses and gains. My friends do the same. Unfortunately, it’s easy to focus on the debit side. We talk about losing our keys, losing our memory, and losing our physical strength.This isn’t how God sees aging.
- [Adventure on the Amazon](https://navencore.org/2017/10/11/adventure-on-the-amazon/): I expected to serve during my mission trip last summer, and I did! But God also blessed me in more ways than I’d dreamed of, with renewed confidence in how He can use me, a precious new friend to pray for, and a desire to serve the Lord in a new way. As a nurse,
- [Time for Me?](https://navencore.org/2017/09/28/time-for-me/): As a new member of Nav Encore, I am making the transition from full-time ministry to fewer scheduled hours. But to do that transition well, I find that I need to think about what I value at this season of my life and what restores me to feel energized and be effective in ministry. Recently, I
- [Aging Gracefully](https://navencore.org/2017/09/19/aging-gracefully/): I used to think aging was a series of losses, but that is changing. I am discovering that getting older is about grace, not loss—specifically, giving grace. If I age gracefully, people will enjoy being around me whatever my age. We all need grace!Aging is rich with opportunities to build deeper relationships and to model
- [As Seen on TV](https://navencore.org/2017/08/30/as-seen-on-tv/): God is using Hal and Karen Jensen, a veteran staff couple who serve on Nav Encore staff in Honolulu, to make a real difference for Christ through their many spheres of influence. Don’t just take my word for it. Click here to see an inspirational video of this special couple, who were recently interviewed on a local TV
- [To Retire . . . Or Not to Retire?](https://navencore.org/2017/08/25/to-retire-or-not-to-retire/): The subject of retirement naturally breeds confusion. In working with Nav Encore staff, the question of retirement comes up often—or it should come up. Retirement offers obvious benefits, but there are potential pitfalls as well.Retirement is a fairly recent phenomenon. Until the last century, either (a) you didn’t live long enough to worry about it or (b)
- [God's Divine Appointment](https://navencore.org/2017/08/18/gods-divine-appointment/): We entered the church and walked down the hall almost at the same time. I said “Hi” and told her I hadn’t been here very long and didn’t know many people. She said, “I am new, too.” So began another relationship in my new city. I was so happy to get to know Lucy and hear
- [How God Redirected Our Steps](https://navencore.org/2017/08/04/how-god-redirected-our-steps/): “Dad, how do you tell your kids that their mommy died?” My son sobbed on the phone. His children were six, four, two, and two months old. I had no answer except, “I will be there tomorrow.” I booked the earliest flight the next day to Salt Lake City.Our daughter-in-law, Maggie, had been having difficulty
- [God's Promises, God's Grace](https://navencore.org/2017/07/14/gods-promises-gods-grace/): Are God’s promises unconditional? Why do we sometimes have to do something to “collect” on His promises? In my experience, the first cousin to the tension between grace and effort (see my previous blog here) is the tension between grace and conditions. Grace is usually understood as the unmerited favor of God expressed to us out
- [Reducing Tension in Discipleship](https://navencore.org/2017/06/23/reducing-tension-in-discipleship/): There are aspects of the Christian life that are paradoxical, causing tension when we can’t resolve them. As a rule we tend to polarize what we cannot harmonize, emphasizing one over the other or promoting one and minimizing the other. Whole denominations have been built around this type of tension. Although some tension is unavoidable,
- [A Cactus Helped Me Find My Way](https://navencore.org/2017/06/07/a-cactus-helped-me-find-my-way/): Years ago, I was given a large terra-cotta bowl of eight to ten different types, shapes, and colors of cacti. I was thrilled. I told myself, “My ignorance about gardening will not be a liability for these plants, they are indestructible.” I put them in the bright summer sun and forgot about them. Eventually, they
- [Right Where You Are](https://navencore.org/2017/04/25/right-where-you-are/): Recently, a close Christian friend of ours was taking a walk in the neighborhood she and her husband have lived in these past 15 plus years. This couple has a lifestyle of trusting God to use them to advance the Gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom among those without Christ. Both she and her husband have
- [Work Out What God Has Worked In](https://navencore.org/2017/04/18/work-out-what-god-has-worked-in/): Editor’s note: The following is from Sue Tell’s weekly blog at suetell.com. The beautiful fall weather in Estes Park, Colorado, provided the perfect setting for a retreat with Dr. Bryan Chapell, former president of Covenant Theological Seminary and now a senior pastor in Illinois. For two days I had the privilege of joining 23 of our
- [Divine Surprises](https://navencore.org/2017/02/07/divine-surprises/): As I walked into the classroom for my first of three lessons, the professor was folding up a fish into a paper towel and putting it in his briefcase. Then he walked out and I was on! Though basically a captive audience, these 22 college freshmen gave me their undivided attention as I described the
- [Wiggle Room](https://navencore.org/2017/01/20/wiggle-room/): Editor’s Note: The following is from Sue Tell’s weekly blog at suetell.com.Rachel celebrated her 30th milestone last July.She connected with several of us (older, ah-hem) friends asking for a gift—our gift of words written on a card and delivered by snail mail. How old-fashion.I loved it. Rachel is a wise woman. She hunts wisdom and listens well.How would
- [Generous Friendship](https://navencore.org/2016/12/06/generous-friendship/): “Why did you come to Siberia?” asked a scientist named Andre, not long after we first met. Deb and I were “non-resident” missionaries to Siberia at the time—during the mid-90s. We traveled in and out and helped launch an outreach and discipling ministry among former communist atheists. We made multiple trips to the city of
- [The Majestic One](https://navencore.org/2016/11/11/the-majestic-one/): “The magnitude and majesty of God” isn’t a likely topic for our daily devotions. It usually takes something significantly impressive—a moment in awe of nature or a special life event—for us to take a step back and take it all in. In his book, “The Holiness of God” R. C. Sproul writes, “Men are never
- [Built for Battle](https://navencore.org/2016/10/04/built-for-battle/): A few years ago, Deb and I took a tour of the battleship USS Alabama, retired from service in 1962 and now docked in Mobile Bay near Mobile, Alabama. It was quite interesting since both of our fathers served with the United States Navy during WWII. In its active time, the USS Alabama was a temporary home to
- [Overcoming Feedback Fears](https://navencore.org/2016/09/20/overcoming-feedback-fears/): "Successful people only have two problems with negative feedback. However, they are big problems: (a) they don't want to hear it from us and (b) we don't want to give it to them" writes author and feedback coach Marshall Goldsmith.From personal observation and experience, I know this to be true. Take marriage, for example. Even
- [Praise God](https://navencore.org/2016/09/08/praise-god/): I recently read “Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion” by Greg “Father G” Boyle. Father Greg is the founder of Homeboy Industries, an independent nonprofit that provides employment for the gang-involved youth of Los Angeles.Because of his work with at-risk youth and former gang members, “Father G” was often invited to receive
- [Words Matter](https://navencore.org/2016/08/31/words-matter/): Our daughter Sarah recently shared the following conversation she had with her son, Drew, when they were out and saw a woman walking her dog:Drew: What kind of dog is that? Sarah: That's an English Sheepdog. Drew: What does that mean?Sarah: It means the dog is originally from England, like Uncle Ben. Drew: Oh, I bet it barks
- [Everyday Wisdom](https://navencore.org/2016/07/22/everyday-wisdom/): Aging is often associated with what we lose, but why not associate it with what we gain? The Bible associates wisdom with aging. Job asked the question, “Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” (Job 12:12, NIV). But is that wisdom automatic or is there something more we must do?
- [Word Power](https://navencore.org/2016/07/01/word-power/): When our son David was three years old, he memorized Psalm 119:97, which reads, “O how I love Thy law O Lord. It is my meditation all the day.” However, he couldn’t say his L’s very well at the time, so the verse came out, “O how I yove Thy yaw O Yord. It is
- [The Gift of a Wooden Chain](https://navencore.org/2016/06/09/the-gift-of-a-wooden-chain/): A number of years ago, my father gave me a special gift that I still prize to this day. “Son, I want you to have this unique wooden chain,” he said. “It was hand carved out of a single piece of pine by my uncle, Chester Roth.” Upon taking a closer look, one notices the intricacies
- [The Life He Led, the Wake He Left](https://navencore.org/2016/05/25/the-life-he-led-the-wake-he-left/): My late grandfather Elmer Baumgartner left quite the “wake.” The term “wake” comes from clinical psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Henry Cloud, who compares the idea of leaving a legacy to a concept he calls “the wake.” Just as a boat leaves a wake in its path when it goes through the water, so a person
- [Building a Legacy](https://navencore.org/2016/05/16/building-a-legacy/): Many choose to step back from senior leadership or veteran positions, but still want to offer insight, mentoring, and valuable coaching to those coming up behind them. That’s where the Nav Encore Mission comes in. Our Nav Encore Leadership Team recently had a lengthy discussion about Numbers 8:23-26, a passage that talks about “retirement” as it
- [Reality Check](https://navencore.org/2016/05/09/reality-check/): A dog food company hit some hard times. Sales were low and the CEO tried everything he could think of to improve the bottom line. He hired a new advertising firm, but that didn’t help. Next, he fired his entire marketing department and hired a new team.After several months, however, nothing changed. Sales numbers were
- [The Bigger Story](https://navencore.org/2016/04/29/the-bigger-story/): Perhaps you’ve heard the old story about a U.S. Navy warship that was heading through the fog one night when a distant, faint light appeared directly in its heading. As the light got brighter, a voice came over the ship radio and said, “Attention. Calling the vessel traveling on a 220 heading. Adjust your course
- [From Russia, With Prayer](https://navencore.org/2016/04/21/from-russia-with-prayer/): Why is prayer so often a last resort?Even though we were in Irkutsk, a city of 750,000 people, and had a map, we couldn’t make use of either because we didn’t know Russian! We stood for a moment thinking about which direction to head. We felt helpless.You see, after two days in Russia, my friend
- [Sitting on Ready](https://navencore.org/2016/04/11/sitting-on-ready/): Some years ago, a southern gentleman passed on to me a memorable comment on the idea of service to our Lord. The elderly saint said it this way: “A servant should always be sitting on ready.” I saw this in action with the recent transition of the AFAM Network from my wife, Jane, and me to
- [Make the Connection](https://navencore.org/2016/04/08/make-the-connection/): Communication is great. Connection is better.John C. Maxwell expands on this idea in his book, Everyone Communicates, Few Connect: What the Most Effective People Do Differently. He writes about three key questions that people ask when we seek to make a connection with them. If we can answer “yes” to all three of these questions, there’s
- [Listening to My Wife](https://navencore.org/2016/03/30/listening-to-my-wife/): To know is to listen. If I want to get to know people, I must draw them out; and if I draw them out, I must learn to listen. Listening, though, requires patience and discipline. It is not natural, at least not for me. I would rather tell than listen, and every time I do
- [Maximum Impact](https://navencore.org/2016/03/11/maximum-impact/): “When a boy turns 13, put him in a barrel and nail the lid on the top. Feed him through the knothole. When he turns 16, put a plug in the knothole!”That’s Mark Twain’s tongue-in-cheek child-rearing advice when it comes to young men. Having been a teenage boy myself, and having raised two sons, I’m
- [We Need Helen!](https://navencore.org/2016/03/03/we-need-helen/): As City Campus Director of the Nashville Navigators, I can’t say enough about the ministry impact we’re experiencing locally through the efforts of Helen Ebert, who is a part of our Nav Encore Mission. Frankly put, we need Helen! Our ministry in Nashville is exploding on campus, with numerous students coming to faith in Christ and deepening their
- [Encouraging Words](https://navencore.org/2016/03/01/encouraging-words/): Everyone loves to be encouraged. I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that I can live quite a few days on a positive comment offered by a friend or family member. But for whatever reason, too often we miss or ignore the opportunity to build up others.Though it was first published in 1936, Dale Carnegie’s How
- [Leaving Footprints](https://navencore.org/2016/02/22/leaving-footprints/): “Some people come into our lives and quietly go. Others stay awhile, and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.”I was impressed by this quote, which surfaced in Dave Kraft’s book Leaders Who Last. I thought, How true!Pondering the quote naturally led me to think of Charlie Greene, one of these people who had
- [Blessed to Be a Blessing](https://navencore.org/2016/02/10/blessed-to-be-a-blessing/): While browsing at a local bookstore recently, I found a book that captured my attention. It's a leadership gem by the late Dr. Myles Munroe titled Passing It On with the subtitle, “Growing Your Future Leaders.”Dr. Munroe founded and chaired the International Third World Leaders Association, an organization devoted to training and developing leaders in more than
- [LIFE LESSONS: No Other Time Like This One](https://navencore.org/2001/01/01/life-lessons-no-other-time-like-this-one/): One experience while I served at the University of Kobe in Japan many years ago had a deep impact that has lasted throughout my life. A Japanese friend who attended another college told me about a friend, Minato San, who wanted to study the Bible. We had been praying that we could start a Bible

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://navencore.org/): HELPING YOUFINISH STRONG "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 NAVIGATORS ENCORE We are veteran Navigators who continue to use our gifting and experiences to multiply generations of disciples in a variety of settings. JoinEncore The Navigators Encore Mission is ideal for staff
- [Events](https://navencore.org/events/): ENCORE GATHERINGS Senior Navigators Celebration 2025 Plenary 1 – David Lyons Plenary 2 – Jerry White Plenary 3 – Wanda G. Anderson Plenary 4 –Eddie Broussard Plenary 5 – Marvin Campbell Plenary 1 – David Lyons Plenary 2 – Jerry White Plenary 3 – Wanda G. Anderson Plenary 4 –Eddie Broussard Plenary 5 – Marvin
- [Resources](https://navencore.org/resources/): RETIREMENT RESOURCES NextSteps Retirement is the best option for many longtime staff. If you read “Guidelines for Your Decision” and find yourself in the last category, retirement may be right for you. Follow the link below to find out how to take the first steps towards retirement. Click here Are you ready to move toward retirement? The
- [Meet Our Leaders](https://navencore.org/meet-our-leaders/): MEET OUR LEADERS Encore Directors They have four adult children and nine grandchildren in Colorado and California. Leadership Team RAY AND ELLEN CLARK Ray’s relationship with Jesus was kindled through the collegiate ministry at North Carolina State in 1975 where he also caught a passion for II Timothy 2:2. Following a 43-year career as an
- [Connect with Other Staff](https://navencore.org/connect-with-other-staff/): CONNECT WITHOTHER STAFF PrayerInitiative As part of our strategic goal to abide more deeply in Christ, Navigators Encore has created the Encore Prayer Team. The initiative is designed to generate more prayer requests from Encore staff. We will send your requests to the Prayer Team during the first week of every month. ASK FOR PRAYER
- [FAQ's](https://navencore.org/faqs/): FREQUENTLY ASKEDQUESTIONS Frequently Asked Questions about the Navigators Encore Mission Navigator staff often ask us how someone can become part of our Encore team. In particular, they want to know (1) why they might consider making the move to this Mission, and (2) if the Lord leads, how to take the first steps. Thus, we’ve
- [Encore Authors](https://navencore.org/encore-authors/): ENCORE AUTHORS Men need passion to live in light of the fact that the God of the universe chose us to be His children, called us to be kingdom men, and enables us to passionately live like Jesus and advance His Gospel where we live, work, and play through the generations! Buy Book Men need
- [About Us](https://navencore.org/about-us/): ABOUT US TheEncoreMission The mission of Navigators Encore is to advance the gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom into our God-given spheres of influence through spiritual generations of laborers living and discipling among the lost.We are veteran Navigators with reduced hours who are continuing to make vital contributions to the Great Commission by using our
- [Workshops](https://navencore.org/workshops/): Workshops Discovering God, Leaving a Legacy Ron BennettIs your life unfolding as a mere narrative, or does it resonate as a divine melody? In this workshop, you will learn how to discover, compose, and share your sacred song—your spiritual legacy—as you explore the various landscapes of life and the hidden, divine presence of God that
- [Volunteers Needed](https://navencore.org/volunteers-needed/): VOLUNTEER NEEDSIf you would like to help in one of the following areas for the Senior Navigators Celebration 2025 that will take place on April 27-29, 2025, please sign up by emailing us here and we will be in touch with more details. Catering Help direct catering lines, communicate with hotel staff when food is getting low, and
- [Travel](https://navencore.org/travel/): TRAVEL Airports near Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs AirportColorado Springs, Colorado (9 miles)Main Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, UnitedClick here for website Denver International AirportDenver, Colorado (88 miles)View airlines hereClick here for website Ground Transportation: The DoubleTree hotel does provide a complimentary airport shuttle to and from the Colorado Springs airport based on availability. For arrival, call the hotel directly at 719-576-8900
- [Transfer Process](https://navencore.org/transfer-process/): TRANSFER PROCESS Step 1 Visit the website to read the FAQs About Joining Navigators Encore and other information about the Encore Mission.Initiate this possible transfer by talking with your current Mission supervisor and the Encore director. This conversation should lead to a thorough and clear understanding of what your role would be in the Encore
- [Sponsors](https://navencore.org/sponsors/): SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS
- [SNC Presenters](https://navencore.org/snc-presenters/): PRESENTERS Eddie has served with The Navigators in several roles since he met them as a university freshman in 1974. These include collegiate ministries in four states, an overseas tour in Russia, & 17 years on the leadership team of the US Navigators where his focus was ethnic diversity. He now serves as International Vice
- [Senior Navigators Celebration](https://navencore.org/senior-navigators-celebration/): SENIOR NAVIGATORS CELEBRATIONOur theme for this gathering is “Praise, Proclaim, Press On.” At this year’s celebration, we will focus on Psalm 71:3, 17-18. We’ll hear from several of our Navigator leaders and staff, have a few engaging workshops, plenty of guided and open times for sharing and fellowship, and a great time worshiping together. REGISTER NOW! DATESEncore Pre-Conference: April
- [Senior Celebration FAQ](https://navencore.org/senior-celebration-faq/): FAQ What is the Cost of the Registration? To register for the Senior Navigators Celebration click here. How Do I Register for the Conference? Picks up from The Colorado Springs Airport or DIA and drops off at the following locations only: The DoubleTree Hotel Colorado SpringsColorado Springs AirportThe Antlers HotelThe Academy HotelColorado Springs Park-n-RidePlease note that you
- [Schedule](https://navencore.org/schedule/): SCHEDULE SUNDAY3:00-5:00 p.m. – Registration Check-in/Exhibits Open5:00-6:30 p.m. – Dinner on Your Own7:00-8:30 p.m. – Plenary 1: The Rock, Speaker David Lyons 8:30-10:00 p.m. – Dessert Reception/Exhibits Open MONDAY7:00-8:30 a.m. – Breakfast/Exhibits Open9:00-10:00 a.m. – Plenary 2: All Ages, Speaker Jerry White10:00-10:30 a.m. – Break 10:30-11:45 a.m. – Workshop Session 112:00-1:30 p.m. – Lunch12:30-1:30 p.m. –
- [Pre-conference](https://navencore.org/pre-conference/): PRE-CONFERENCE Details Start: Saturday, April 26, 2025, 6:00 p.m.End: Sunday, April 27, 2025 1:00 p.m.Registration Fee: $75 per personThis pre-conference will be a time for Navigators Encore staff to be together and address issues that are unique to Encore.Questions?: Email us here. Schedule Saturday, April 26, 20253:00 – 5:00 p.m. Arrival, Registration Check-in6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Dinner 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
- [Join Encore](https://navencore.org/join-encore/): SHOULD I JOINENCORE? Stay with your current mission if... Your personal mission statement and ministry focus are aligned with an established Navigators Mission.You have a vital relational network in your current Navigators Mission. This includes working relationships, supervisory relationships and the geographical accessibility to both ministry and personal relationships.Your current mission leadership welcomes and values
- [Hotel](https://navencore.org/hotel/): HOTEL Cost$149 per nightDoesn’t include tax Room TypesRoom with King bed with Queen sleeper sofaRoom with two Queen beds Note: Due to events in the area, the hotel is sold out on April 24, 2025. You can still make a sleeping room reservation starting on April 25, 2025 through April 30, 2025. REGISTER YOURROOM NOW
- [Have You Read...?](https://navencore.org/have-you-read/): HAVE YOU READ...? books we like Following Jesus: Biblical Reflections on Discipleship by N.T Wright. Surprise the World! The Five Habits of Highly Missional People by Michael Frost. Practical suggestions for reaching out.The Gift of Years by Joan Chittister. Reflections on “the burden and the blessing” of 40 aspects of aging, Finishing Well: The Adventure of Life Beyond Halftime by Bob BufordAging Matters:
- [Good Grief](https://navencore.org/good-grief/): Good Grief! Hope, Help, and a Little Humor for Your Journey from Wife to Widow or Husband to WidowerJody Noland, speaker, CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer), and author of Good Grief!Jody Noland will join us for this special breakfast meeting.Becoming a widow, a widower, or caring for a friend who has lost a spouse is hard
- [Get Involved](https://navencore.org/get-involved/): RETIREMENT RESOURCES Pray for NavigatorsEncore We are grateful for your interest in Navigators Encore. We’re a group of people who believe in the power of prayer. We are desperately dependent upon the Lord and identify with the psalmist David’s words in Psalm 145:18-19, “the Lord is near to all who call on him to all who
- [Contact Us](https://navencore.org/contact-us/): CONTACT US LET USHEAR FROMYOU "*" indicates required fields Name*Email* Message Send Δ