What an exciting summer of church services!  We have criss-crossed South Dakota and Minnesota for these months.

 

It was such a privilege to minister in Lowry, MN, at the Lowry Community Covenant Church with Pastor Ted Graf.  Lowry is located near Alexandria, MN, and is known as "A small community with a big heart."  We sure found that to be true.  What a wonderful loving group of people!  We had so many friends that drove in for the morning service…a couple from Arizona, Iowa, and even one from out East who were on vacation. 

 

 

 "You have been with us in Benson and Herman and now here in Lowry.  We are always excited to have you come.  Our people love you and there is always a good altar call."

Rev. Ted & Joann Graf

Lowry Community Covenant Church

Lowry, MN

 

 

 

 

 

Our most recent rally was in Watertown, SD, at Christian Life Assembly of God.  It was kind of a de'ja vu experience.  As we walked into the church, my memory bank flooded with memories of coming to this same church as a teenager when our youth group would travel the one hour trip to attend youth rallies and church fellowships.  (Now you know...that was a long time ago…I never say I am getting old, I like to use the word older as it makes me feel younger.)

 

As we loaded into the church, we were greeted with such an atmosphere of expectation.  One middle-aged lady said, "We are so glad you and Larry are back here again. "  She grinned and then added, "You have been on the road longer than I have been born."  Did I mention she was in her 50's?  I laughed, "Thanks for making me feel ancient!"  She quipped, "No…I am just amazed that you are still going and ministering.  I have been coming to see you since I was a young girl and now my children are grown." (That statement didn't make me feel any younger either.  HA!)

 

Christian Life always has a wonderful group of teenagers in attendance who fill the pews up front and they cheer us on.  When the altar call was given, three of them stepped forward along with others to dedicate their lives to Christ.  I love seeing "prodigals" returning home and being witness to the sweet hugging reunions.  God is good! 

 

Thanks, Pastor Sheldon and Pastor Harris, for allowing us the privilege of being back at Christian Life.  It was truly great!

 

 

 

 

"I so very much enjoyed the happiness that you two bring through ministry.  I so appreciated hearing how faithful you have been for so many years, and thank you for speaking the truth.  Please stay out there!"

Roy & Carrie Brownlee

Watertown, SD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"I love music!  It always brings me closer to the Lord and I feel such a connection with Him through it.  What I am saying is thank you for your music and all the joy you brought Sunday morning."

Lindy Kopas

Watertown, SD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 "We have heard about your ministry for years.  We were so excited to be able to come and see you in person.  The words to your songs so ministered to our hearts…love that country flavor.  Sunday was definitely a highlight!"

Darrel & Gerry Crocker

Watertown, SD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 "About four years ago, my husband Damian and I attended your service in Sisseton, SD, and it was that morning that Damian and I decided it was our time to give our lives to Christ.  When Larry gave the altar call, we responded.  We didn't want to miss today as we enjoy your service so much.  We LOVE the music and it is fun and exciting to watch all the people giving their lives to Christ."

Damian & Courtney Bostrom

Watertown, SD

*Courtney is my (Gloria's) great niece.  She is attending Christian Life Assembly and is serving as a part time secretary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 "I so enjoyed heading up the counseling and seeing those that responded to the altar call. "

Cecil Martinez

Watertown, SD

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yesterday I ran into a huge chain supermarket to pick up a couple of things.  As I approached the checkout counter, the young man serving as my cashier looked at me and gave his required greeting asking, "And how are you today?"  I answered, "Good."  Still scanning the items, he looked up at me and asked, "Are you really good?"  To which I smiled, "Yes."  He then proceeded to inquire, "Why?"

 

I responded, "I was able to get out of bed today; I am able to walk on my own; there are no bombs or wars here in South Dakota;  I have a house for shelter and food for sustenance and if I die, I know where I am going!"  Without taking a breath I shot back, "And how about you?" 

 

Stunned, he looked and me and said, "What?"  I answered, "If you died, do you know where you would go…heaven or hell?"  He put his hands up in the air and waved at me, "No, no, no….I don't allow my brain to think about that."  I smiled as there was a lineup of customers behind me and gave my final statement, "Well you are a nice young man. I would seriously encourage you to think it over.   If in question, you can always pray.  Have a nice day." 

 

And off I went!  I was walking toward the exit where there was also a young man (about 6'4) stationed near the door standing like a tin soldier.  I took about eight steps backwards, walked over to him and looked up, "Hi.  How are you doing today?"  He groaned, "Okay, I guess."  I continued, "I love to talk to young people like you and ask questions."  He groaned, "Yeah?"  I proceeded, "Tell me…do you believe in a heaven or hell?"  Stunned he grabbed his ears and rattled, "No…I don't go there.  I don't allow myself to think of that." 

 

Again, I smiled and told him, "You are a nice young man.  If I were you, I would allow myself to think about it because they do exist…and…if you would really like to know, you can always pray and ask God to show you the truth."  He stammered, "Ugghhhh…yeah."  I bid him, "Have a nice day."  He responded with a look like he had just been shot by a stun gun. 

 

Larry and I are saddened by the large number in this generation that willfully live in the land of denial or as we call it "lala land".  They choose to not want to hear truth or about spiritual things.  They only live in the NOW and not the THEN.  The scripture says, "In the last days, they will be lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God." Let's all take the challenge to reach out in love and to give these young people something to think about.  Prayerfully they will reach out and up for Truth…Jesus Christ.

 

Here are our upcoming services.  If you are in the area, please come and visit us!

 

Aug. 31 AM     Elk River, MN, Twin Lakes Christian A/G, 763-241-1111

Sept. 6  PM & Sept. 7 AM   Verndale, MN, Verndale Family Life Church, 218-445-5568

 

Gloria

 

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You may register until the morning of Monday, August 18th!!!!  Four spots left!!!

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Greetings from Sisseton!  I was just sitting here in awe and was commenting to Larry how nice it has been to be based out of our home in South Dakota since May.  We drive out for Saturday and Sunday ministry returning home Sunday evenings gloriously exhausted from ministering but what comfort it is to come back to our home, sleep in our own bed, wake up to coffee perking and having the aroma rejuvenating me and inspiring me to work from our home office.  I told Larry, "Wow!  The older I get, the more the desire swells to come back home---there is just something about home."

 Speaking of coming home---it is always thrilling and emotional to see prodigals spiritually come back home.  In every service, someone's loved one is winding and finding his or her way back to the Heavenly Father.  What rejoicing!

 

 

We had a wonderful and exciting service at Calvary Assembly of God in Sioux Falls, SD last Sunday.  Dozens of our friends and partners we have known through the years joined us for the morning of ministry.  Many of them have followed us on our ministry journey---some from a year, to twenty years to even fifty years.

 

Pastor Todd and Goldie Leininger gave us such a warm welcome and made us feel so at home.  We have known them for years.  Sunday morning when Pastor Todd introduced us he said,

"About ten years ago Larry and Gloria came to a church we were pastoring and as always at the end of the service Larry made an altar call.  A little boy made his way to the altar that morning to accept Jesus as his personal savior.  It was our little boy, Bret.  Bret is not so little anymore in fact he stands six feet tall and in a few short weeks will be leaving our home for a college dorm but the commitment he made that day remains firm in his heart.  This is one mom and dad who are very grateful the ministry of Larry and Gloria."

 

Todd and Goldie Leininger

 

 

I know kids hate to hear us say, "We remember you since you were in diapers or in a high chair," BUT with Todd and Goldie's son, Bret---we really do remember him since he was a toddler in a high chair.  He always had such a great smile and gentle spirit.  We are proud of you!

 

"As I step into adulthood I am so thankful for the relationship I have with Jesus Christ.  He is the rock I stand on when everything around me is changing.  

Thank you Larry and Gloria for being part of my journey with Jesus."

-Bret Leininger  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was also a joy to see Don and Vickie Hagen, formerly of Sisseton.  They were so kind to take special interest in our girls when they were teenagers.  When we would come home off a long tour, they always invited our girls out to their home to fellowship with their teenagers. 

 

They always had the gift of hospitality and made our girls feel so accepted and loved. 

 

Don and Vickie continue to pour out the love of Jesus!  Thank you! 

 

 

 

Their son, Jim, a friend of our girls, is the head of the Department of Tourism in South Dakota.  He is doing a superb job promoting our great state!  Speaking of…often in our services, Larry will tell the people where we are from…then…with that mischievous grin asks, "How many have heard of our famous rock group in South Dakota?"  A bit shocked and not knowing how to respond, Larry then adds, "It's Mount Rushmore!  They are carved out of rock."  Get it…HA!  That's my Larry!

 

We travel thousands of miles each year but we are seldom in an area where we have relatives so we were excited to have several of the Brooks' cousins come out to join us last Sunday as well.

 

Here are my Brooks' Cousins: Loretta Silcott, Deanna Hanly, Jackie & Earl Brown, Nancy & Lonnie Peterson.

 

"The service was so much fun.  We really enjoyed the music and message.  We are so glad we got to come."

 

 

 

 

 

 

We were also honored to have the District Superintendent of the South Dakota Assemblies of God, Steve Schaible and his wife, Rachel, attend the service. 

 

They are truly a special couple and we are so privileged to have them lead our fellowship in South Dakota. 

 

"It was such a privilege to be in the service at Sioux Falls Calvary Assembly on Sunday with long time friends, Larry and Gloria.  The music was refreshing and inspiring.  The message was encouraging. But the best past was when two young boys went forward to give their hearts to Jesus, along with two mature men.  The angels were rejoicing!"

 

Rev. Steven & Rachel Schaible

 

 

 

Before heading to Sioux Falls, we were in Huron, SD on July 13^th, which is a joy each time we return!  Wow….as always…it was great to have a number of partners and friends that drove in to join us for the morning.  The sanctuary was filled with anticipation and excitement of what God was going to do…and it happened at the altar call! 

 

The Lead Pastor, Rev. Tom Brantner, was gone on vacation but the Associate Pastor, Jon Molan, and his wife Heather did a wonderful job!  It was a pleasure working with them!  We loved their excitement soulwinning and reaching the lost.  They truly were an encouragement to us as you could see their passion for evangelism.  We were so thrilled at all those that responded to the altar call that morning!

 

Pastor Jonathan Molan

Huron, SD

 

 

 

We can't forget to wish a Happy 16^th Birthday to Myanna!!!  Our granddaughter from Nashville has grown so quickly from a toddler to a teenager.  She now gets her driver's license…oooh…Mom gets to pray more! 

 

Myanna, we love you and are proud of you.  Never forget, God has great plans for your life!

 

 

 

 

We hope you are enjoying your summer! If you are in the area, please join us for the following services:

 

SUMMER UP & COMING SCHEDULE

 

Aug. 3   AM    Lowry, MN, Lowry Community Covenant Church, 320-424-0560 

Aug. 10  AM    Watertown, SD, Christian Life Assembly of God, 605-886-3392

Aug. 31 AM     Elk River, MN, Twin Lakes Christian A/G, 763-241-1111

 

 

Gloria

 

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What a perfect day in South Dakota!  Beautiful…it is about 75 degrees, the sun is shining, the grass is green and the birds are singing which is in contrast to the 4^th of July which was, as usual, sweltering hot.  With all of the rain, everything is so plush and green…the down-side though, the mosquitos are reproducing in droves.

 

We have had wonderful summer services.  On Sunday, June 29^th, we were privileged to be back in Brookings, SD, to minister at the First Assembly of God with Pastor Gerry 

and Cathy Bass.  The service went great and it is always fun to meet new friends.

 

"A great time of ministry was held Sunday, June 29 when Larry & Gloria Lundstrom came to minister.  Hearts were blessed and lives were changed under the anointing of their ministry. 

The greatest ministry of all is when you see lives changed and transformed for Jesus.  We enjoyed the ministry time at lunch with Larry and Gloria.  It was rich and rewarding for us to share our hearts.  Thank you Lundstroms for giving of yourselves."

Pastor Gerry & Cathy Bass

First Assembly of God

Brookings, SD

 

 

It was also nice to see Ernie and Gloria Hutchins who both worked for our ministry for several years.  Gloria was our secretary and Ernie was our Office Manager/Scheduler.  They were such a blessing to us and the ministry for that time.  They have since moved to Brookings making their home there.  Along with them, it was fun to see other members of their family who grew up in our hometown of Sisseton, Myron and Judy Moen along with Joyce Barse.

"We were thrilled to have Larry and Gloria with us at Brookings First Assembly of God.  We are so glad to see that Larry is still making the Gospel message so easy to understand.  Their singing and music----it couldn't have been any better.  We were so blessed!"

Ernie & Gloria Hutchins

Brookings, SD

 

 

 

 

Last Sunday, the 4^th of July weekend, we were blessed to be able to minister once again at Battle Lake Alliance Church in Battle Lake, MN.  What a great morning!  It was a full house and the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation.  We were overjoyed to see so many friends who drove in for this service.

 

 

Two years ago when we had ministered there, several made decisions for Christ.  It was thrilling to hear this time around, how these individuals' lives had been changed and how they are now serving the Lord. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We enjoyed seeing these dear friends as well while in Battle Lake.  They shared this with us…

"Recently, while on vacation, we had the privilege of attending the Battle Lake Alliance Church where the Lundstroms were ministering. It was such a joy to renew our acquaintance with Larry and Gloria and to hear them present the simple gospel through word and song. It is why we continue to support their ministry even though we've not been able to attend one of their services in many years. We know that our support will help them to continue to plant the seeds of salvation and renewal in the hearts of many people, young and old. 

 

 

Their style of ministry is hard to find these days, but it is evident from the response to their altar calls that it is still so effective. 

God bless you, Larry and Gloria, as you continue to spread the Good News to those who will listen and respond."

Ron and Cheryl Waggoner

Springfield, Missouri

 

 

IT'S A MIRACLE!

 

With tears of excitement, Sue Roche, grabbed my arm just as we were leaving and said, "I  know everyone has been talking to you but I have to share a miracle.  When you were here two years ago, my unsaved husband came with me to hear you.  Towards the end of the service, I slipped into the kitchen to begin preparations for the after service lunch.  When Larry began the altar call, a parishioner came in and insisted I go look in the sanctuary.  I raced to see what they were talking about and there stood my husband up at the altar praying.  I cried and cried tears of joy---as everyone that knows us knows the rough and bad life we lived previous---this was truly a miracle. 

Before I came to Christ, I came to the end of myself and said to my husband, "Something is going to have to change.  We just can't go on living like this.  We were marked as 'trouble' in the community."  To this I chuckled and she said, "No, Gloria, I mean it.  You have no idea how bad we were.  A few years ago I gave my heart to Christ and my whole life changed.  I've been involved in church and have been praying for my husband for years.  It happened!  In fact, when we were packing to go to our lake cabin a few days back, I asked him what he wanted to take.  Without hesitancy he said, 'My bible.'"  She ended the conversation with, "Oh Gloria.  He's a changed man.  It's a miracle!  Thank you so much for coming to Battle Lake Alliance Church."

 

 

Speaking of miracles, last Saturday, Elaine Puhl, 87 years old, Pastor Mike Cieniawski's (from Elbow Lake, MN) mother broke her hip while watering her flowers.  She lay in the 95 degree blazing sun for about 40 minutes before they found her.  Thank the Lord they did! 

We visited with her in the hospital and she was rejoicing that she was discovered so soon.  She has now gone through hip surgery.  Elaine is a lively DELIGHT!  She plays piano like a 20 year old and God still has much ministry for her to do.

 

 

And I can't mention DELIGHT without thinking of Larry celebrating his birthday.  He got his wish!  For his 71^st birthday, he DELIGHTED in a Dairy Queen birthday cake.  He was very happy!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We hope you are enjoying your summer so far! If you are in the area, please join us for the following services:

 

SUMMER UP & COMING SCHEDULE

 

July 13  AM     Huron, SD, Huron First Assembly of God, 605-352-4896

July 20  AM     Sioux Falls, SD, Calvary Assembly of God, 605-336-9270

Aug. 3   AM    Lowry, MN, Lowry Community Covenant Church, 320-424-0560 

Aug. 10  AM    Watertown, SD, Christian Life Assembly of God, 605-886-3392

 

Gloria

 

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Greetings from Sisseton!  Needless to say…it has been action-packed since we arrived home from the services in Tennessee, time spent recording, and services in Iowa and Minnesota.  Like they say back here, "No time for grass to grow under our feet." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday the 22^nd, we went to Elbow Lake, MN to minister at the Victory in Life church with Pastor Mike and Janice Cieniawski.  Elbow Lake is a small community and they have a beautiful small church with beautiful people.  On Sunday morning, Larry and I were preparing to enter the sanctuary to begin the service when a couple, Merlin and Lois Windom, entered the church.  Merlin greeted Larry, "Hi Larry,  I gave my heart to Christ when you were here two years ago."  The smile on his face and his wife's face convinced both of us that Merlin had made the right decision when he responded to the altar call that beautiful summer Sunday morning, two years ago.  I stepped forward and shook his hand, trying to hold myself together emotionally, "Merlin, you have just given me more mileage to go on - you coming to Christ and growing spiritually is like a blood transfusion to Larry and I - it makes this life on the road worth all the effort!" 

 

  

 

It was wonderful to be back with Pastor Mike and Janice. Their church supports us monthly to send us to reach the lost. 

 

 

"We had a great with Larry and Gloria. We look forward to hosting them again. Their ministry focus is sous for the Kingdom of God, and that is truly refreshing."

 

Thanks again,

 

Mike & Janice Cieniawski

Victory In Life Church, Elbow Lake, MN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"We enjoyed your service, the music, humor and ministry SO much. Thank you for being genuine." 

-David & Jessica Cieniawski

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Larry and I always said we would never turn down a smaller church who wants evangelism and desires to see lives changed. I like what Larry often says, "If God is in it, there is always gold in the altar call."  Yes, Victory in Life church is small, and we had a small crowd, but God did big things at the altar. 

 

Speaking of Larry, he will be zooming past another milestone in celebrating his birthday next Saturday, June 28^th.  He will be the big 71!  Larry's zeal for evangelism is great, or greater, than it was thirty years ago, and I praise God for that.  I thank God for allowing me the joy and privilege of having such a wonderful husband, friend, trenchmate, buddy, father to our children, and grandpa to our grandchildren.  I'm grateful that he always has such a great outlook on life and is always so upbeat!  He spoils this Norweigan and…I love it. 

As I sit here in our living room, the sun is just setting and out on our deck are two doves perched on the railing.  For the past two years, they have been there every morning at sunrise and at every sunset.  I keep telling Larry that God sent them to our home just for me to remind me of one word, "peace," which I always need and desire as I face every situation and action-packed days filled with office work and decisions to be made.  Every time they land on the deck, I smile and thank God for sending them as encouragement to remind me of the verse, "God will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me." (Isaiah 26:3)

 

 

This coming Sunday, June 29^th, we will be singing and ministering in Brookings, SD at 10:00 a.m.:

 

First Assembly of God

416 17^th Ave. S.

Brookings, SD 57006

605-695-3883

 

We'd love to have you come and join us!  And…if you're on vacation, plan to stop in, come as you are - we'd love to see you!

 

SUMMER UP & COMING SCHEDULE:

 

July 6    AM     Battle Lake, MN, Battle Lake Alliance Church, 218-864-5539

July 13  AM     Huron, SD, Huron First Assembly of God, 605-352-4896

July 20  AM     Sioux Falls, SD, Calvary Assembly of God, 605-336-9270

Aug. 3   AM    Lowry, MN, Lowry Community Covenant Church, 320-424-0560 

Aug. 10  AM    Watertown, SD, Christian Life Assembly of God, 605-886-3392

 

Gloria

 

P.S.  The EARLY BIRD SPECIAL for the National Quartet Convention motorcoach tour to Pigeon Forge, TN, is good until June 30th.  We would love to have you  join us! Click on the photo below for more information.

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"Love is to the heart what the summer is to the farmer's year--it brings to harvest all the loveliest flowers of the soul."
 

- Unknown

                                                          

 

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Not only does Colorado have pot...so does Iowa! 

(Please excuse Larry's humor)

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Seven Layer Salad

1 head cup up lettuce

4 oz pkg shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cut up celery

1 onion diced

1 cup raw cauliflower, cut up

1 cup frozen peas

2 cups Miracle Whip

2 Tbsp sugar

8 slices crisply cooked bacon, broken into pieces

 

Layer everything in order listed.  Do not stir.  Let set overnight before serving. *Sprinkle bacon on top right before serving.

 

 

 

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Greetings from Iowa!  Well…the true fact is…I am one year older than I was when I wrote the last "On the Road" update.  As the saying goes, "Time stops for no man/woman." (I guess that means me too!)  As I have always said, "I don't mind growing older, if I don't have to grow up!"   My kids attest to the fact that will never happen with me!

 

 

 

 

 

I was honored and privileged to speak on Mother's Day at Living Waters Assembly of God in Alexandria, MN, with Pastor Sam and Jenny McKay.  After I delivered a message to moms and families, I called the families up to pray with and for each other.  How precious was the sight of tears of restoration followed by tears of joy! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have had two wonderful rallies here in Iowa.  Last Sunday morning, we ministered at Harlan First Assembly of God with Pastor Al & Ella Hazelton.  That particular Sunday also happened to be Graduation Day so it was especially thrilling that amidst all of those who responded to the altar call to make a commitment to Christ was a high school student who was graduating that very day.  You and I know she will need all of Christ to walk well and thrive through the decisions and times she will face in the near future.

 

"When the line of people stretches from one side of the auditorium to the other, all responding to a salvation altar call, we are reminded that good evangelists are truly a gift to the church. People give their hearts to Jesus every time Larry and Gloria come to minister here. We are thankful for those in whom the call has not faded. Come back soon !"

Pastor Al and Ella Hazelton
Harlan First Assembly
Harlan, Iowa
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How great it was to see Gary and Phyllis Hanson who came to Christ when we were in Harlan IA in 1983.  Since then, they have been involved in numerous outreaches and ministries leading others to Christ.  We will have their testimony featured in an upcoming newsletter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What an evening of fun, fellowship, singing and ministry!  And then…the altar call!!!  Dozens stood to pray the salvation prayer and many came forward to make a public commitment.  How thrilling!  We had six pastors and churches who joined in the event. (I had intended to get them together for a picture but it just didn't work out…Sorry!  We were so blessed by their cooperation.)  It was a delight to meet Rev. Keith Menter, the pastor of the Elk Horn Lutheran Church, who graciously hosted us in his church.  What a joyful pastor!  We love working with the churches of all denominations!  

 

 "Larry and Gloria are very respectful of denominational diversity. Faithfully maintains the goal of bringing people to Jesus so that they may worship in their own chosen setting. A very valuable resource for congregations."

Rev. Keith Menter

Elk Horn Lutheran Church, Elk Horn, IA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We want to thank Peggy Hansen.  Her delightful upbeat spirit and gift of hospitality was such a blessing as well as all she did to help set up arrangements for us to be part of the Danish Elk Horn Festival.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A special thanks also to Pastor Matt & Sandy Anderson of the Audobon Assembly of God for helping make arrangements and set up the sound system.  They are a precious ministry couple! 

 

 

 

 

"It was so good to have Larry and Gloria at the Elk Horn Iowa Danish celebration Tivoli festival. As usual, the presence of the Holy Spirit filled the Lutheran church as they sang and ministered the Word of the Lord. Over half the congregation responded as Larry gave the invitation!"

 

Rev. Matt & Sandy Andersen

Audobon Assembly of God, Audobon, IA

 

We will soon be packing up and heading down the road ending up in Camden, TN, this coming Saturday.  We will have a service at Camden First Assembly of God.  If you have friends in this area, please give them a call and invite them out to join us for service on Sunday morning at 10:00 AM.  For more information/directions, you can call 731-584-5236.

From Camden, we will then make our way to Nashville, TN.  Our plan and intention is to record some "old and new" songs for an upcoming CD project.  We are also very anxious to see Donovan, LaDawn, our grandchildren and our son in law while we are there.  Have a blessed week!

We will chat again in a few weeks!

 

 

Gloria

 

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Home…how sweet it is!  After being gone four months, needless to say, we were anxious to get HOME! 

Those Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota winds literally blew us to Sisseton.  In our nearly 50 years of traveling, I don't think we have ever seen such constant unrelenting winds.  As I shared in the last update, when we were coming through Nebraska, the vicious winds ripped off the air conditioner roofmount cover exposing all the internal mechanisms.  That cover is probably three states away by now.  HA!  We were so very thankful for the children's pastor from York, NE who joined Larry on the roof to create a temporary fix.  They did a good job because the fix made it all the way home!

 

April 27^th was our last service on this tour in Wagner, South Dakota.  What a great weekend of ministry at Wagner Community Church with Pastor Jason Hvode.  God graciously anointed the music and message.  Also we were so blessed to meet and get to know such a gracious and wonderful Pastor and family that has such a zeal to reach the Lost in his community.

 

 

 

"Where do Larry and Gloria get the energy to continue after so many years of wonderful ministry? "The joy of The Lord is my strength". The joy of The Lord is the first thing I noticed about this wonderful couple the first time I met them many years ago, and the joy of The Lord is still evident as they minister today, giving them strength to continue their mission of helping people find spiritual birth. The joy they share with everyone they come into contact with results in people being willing to give hearing to the Good News message the Lundstrom's share. We had a wonderful response when they visited; some were visitors, some were recommitments, and some were first time responses to the Gospel by people who have been part of our church for years. This confirms the call of the ministry of the evangelist, and every pastor who desires to teach and make disciples should partner with a trusted evangelist in continued effort to populate heaven. The joy of The Lord? The Lundstrom's have still "got it"!"

 Pastor Jason Hvode

Wagner Community Church

Wagner, SD

 

 

 

 

With Mother's Day this weekend, we pray that you will take the time to honor your mother and

grandmothers.  Larry and I are so blessed to be able to still have my mom, Julie Brooks, who is now 98 years old.  Here is the Mother's Day article I wrote for our monthly newsletter….

 

A Gift of Hunger 

On May 17^th I reach another milestone…my 70^th birthday!  Where did the years go - but what I really celebrate is my spiritual birthday which is April 1952 when I was 8 years old. I invited Jesus to come into my heart at the old Gospel Tabernacle in Sisseton, SD.

 

Let me go back even further…I remember when I was about 5-6 years old, I was lying on the old couch in the living room.  I would lay there and stare at a framed photo of a young man with light cream attire, long flowing hair, gentle eyes and a peaceful look on His face.  I thought it must have been a picture of a relative I hadn't met as we had numerous photos around the house of cousins, aunts, uncles, etc.  I remember the exact moment that I stopped my mother who was scurrying through the living room, toting my baby brother in her arms.  Being the inquisitive young girl I was, and maybe lacking a bit of patience, I stopped her and asked, "Mom, who is that?"  She stopped, looked at the picture and turned to me with an unforgettable expression on her face as she said, "Jesus."  I didn't know anybody by that name but I thought, "He must be a very special cousin to have his photo hanging on the wall."  Again I quizzed, "Where does he live?"  A bit hesitant she answered, "Heaven."  I figured that was the name of the town that he lived in and we didn't travel very far so that made sense.  Again I pressed, "Where is heaven?"  She sat down on the couch as I snuggled up to her and in her own way she tried to explain that heaven was way up in the sky. I kept prodding, "Tell me more about this heaven."  I remember being mesmerized as she began telling me the little bit she knew at that time.  "There is no night there; it's always light (I liked that as I was scared of the dark), no tears (that meant no sadness, I like that!), and that we could live there forever and ever if we were good (well, that one had me a bit rattled as I wasn't always perfect- ha!)." 

From that conversation and on, day after day and month after month, I would lie there on that couch staring and studying that picture with so many other questions filling my thoughts.  Here's more of the story…..

After my brother Jerry, the 8^th child, was born into our family, my dad drove by the little Gospel Tabernacle on a warm spring night where an Evangelist from England was preaching. The church windows were open so my dad sat and listened from the car and was touched by the message.  He came home and insisted we visit this church.  April 1952 at 8 years of age, I was sitting next to my mom, dad and my brothers when the altar call was given to invite Jesus to come into our hearts.  We all stood up, stepped forward as a family and asked Jesus to forgive us our sins and to live in our hearts.  It was the first time I felt Jesus. I felt an overwhelming joy, peace and a giggle of gladness fill my insides. That April 1952 morning, our family's lives and destinies were changed. For the first time we experienced the joy of salvation.

 

Sixty two years later---Jesus is more real to me than He was in that moment way back then. 

Mom (Julie Brooks), thank you for the hunger and desire you had for Jesus. Thank you for that picture that initiated the hunger and thirst to know Jesus at a young age. 

Do you know what's really neat? I now have that picture in the original frame placed in my living room.  Every time I look at it, I am reminded and so grateful that mom had that hunger for God which in turn created my thirst and hunger for Him.  Where would I be if it hadn't been for that moment of receiving Christ?  Thank you, Mom.

 

This Sunday, May 11^th I will be speaking in Alexandria, MN at the Living Waters Assembly of God at 9:30 a.m.  Join us for a time of encouragement, love, and laughter! 

 

 

Gloria

 

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On April 15^th, we motored over to Hill City, Kansas, to minister at First Assembly of God with Pastor Stephen Fulks.  Unfortunately the pastor was ill with pneumonia and unable to be there.  {Since that time, we were able to meet with him and we are thankful he is doing much better}.  Jerry and LaDonna Gano did a great job in helping out in his absence.  What an inspiring fun weekend of music, ministry and Larry's crazy jokes!

 

What a blessed time with the Lundstrom's in Hill City Kansas once again. Several churches were represented with some driving 2 ½ hours to attend the service.  As Larry & Gloria have shared, there is always gold found during the alter call. The work of an evangelist is a strong call upon the lives of Larry & Gloria. Their passion for evangelism is strong and evident in all that they do. Lives are ministered to, souls are saved, and hurting people find comfort as a result of the ministry they are passionate about. The Lundstrom's ministry of evangelism to our world is a gift of God to the church and to the world, and lives are impacted and souls are saved into the Kingdom of God. We are so glad that we could be a small part of this ministry.

Jerry & LaDonna Gano, Hill City, KS

 

The first part of the service was light, but as the Holy Spirit began to draw people unto Himself through the message, it was exciting to see those who made first time commitments.  One parishioner commented, "I can't believe ----- went forward."  To which I replied, "Larry and I could never have reached him, but God can and He did."

 

 

Now fast forward again to today.  We are still sitting in the parking lot of New Heights Assembly of God in York, Nebraska.  They were so kind to allow us to nest here for a day so Larry could do some maintenance on top of the motorhome.  These Kansas winds have been wild.  They ripped the shroud cover off the air conditioner on top of the motorhome.  We were so grateful that the Children's Pastor, Pastor Mark Putnum, whom we have known since he was a little boy, was kind enough to scale to the top of the motorhome with Larry and place a tarp where the cover was.  They applied the old duct tape treatment to it!  With heavy storms and rain coming in today, we wanted it secured.  Hopefully it will stay put until we get home next week.  After bucking these high winds in Kansas this past week, I know why Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz kept flying through the air…HA!

 

We are making our way to Wagner, SD, for ministry this weekend at Wagner Community Church, Sunday, April 27 at 10 AM.  We hope you can join us!

 

SPECIAL THANKS….to Greg Grewell for doing some maintenance/oil change on our motorhome.  We were so blessed!  Get this…it took 40 quarts of oil for the oil change.  Wow!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gloria

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Happy Easter!

 

As a mother of three, I cannot read the Easter story without connecting with Mary, the mother of Jesus.  Mary not only bore Jesus, but she also mothered Him for 30 years in poor Nazareth.  As a devoted mother, she did everything she could do for the son she knew was no ordinary man.  She surrounded His life with character building influences. 

 

When Mary brought her infant son to be dedicated in the temple, the aged, godly Simeon, taking the Babe in his arms blessing Him, said to His mother, "A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also."  Mary was to experience darkness as well as delight as her firstborn, "went to fulfill His mission in the world." 

 

I can only imagine that Mary's deepest sword-piercing came when in agony she stood beneath that old rugged cross and witnessed the degradation, desolation and death of the One whom she had brought into the world and intensely loved!  She heard the blasphemies and revilings of the priests and the people.  If that were me standing there, and it was my son they were accusing…..believe me….more than likely, this momma would have come out fighting and fought them all single-handed.  There would have been an all out war to spare my son.

 

But…many stood there silent.  If Calvary was our Lord's crown of sorrow, it was likewise Mary's also, yet she displayed great courage.  She saw the light of life go out in her son, but her faith did not die.  While others may have sat and watched the suffering, Mary stood by the cross.  While inside Mary must have fought the feelings of hate and pain, she also knew that Jesus was "her Savior".  She knew it was the divine order of things that she should be found beneath the cross to receive the final benediction of her Son and Savior.

 

 

As He died, those around her had no conception of her inner grief as she stood where her Son could see her.  No mother ever displayed such fortitude as Mary manifested at the cross.  The valor of Mary was shown as her heart was pierced again for that which she brought forth was dying!

 

 

Although some of Jesus' disciples forsook Him and fled,  His mother, Mary's, love never surrendered even though her son was dying as a criminal between two thieves.  In that moment, the tremendous truth must have dawned upon Mary….He who hung upon the cross was not her son…that before the world was, He was, that so far from being His mother, she was herself, His child.  Luke's account states when Mary found favor to conceive Jesus, she said, "My spirit hath rejoiced in God, my Savior."

 

And then…can you imagine three days later hearing the news that her "son" is alive?  Talk about an emotional moment!  Her son is alive!  Not just for the moment but FOREVERMORE!  Her life has changed for all eternity.  Praise God!

 

As we come upon Good Friday, I can't help but remember and reflect upon on how through Calvary, my life, too, has been changed for all eternity.  My life which was apart from God, separated, through the most sacrificial act, the giving of God's only Son as my sacrifice, has now been reconciled, redeemed and restored.  I pray yours has, too.   If you have not taken the opportunity to make the Lord your Savior, I ask that you do not wait one more moment.

 

A  :   Acknowledge that you are a sinner.  ("For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God."  Romans 3:23)

B:     Believe that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead.  ("For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not     perish but have everlasting life."  John 3:16)

C:  Confess with your mouth and verbalize your belief.    ("That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9)

 

It is my prayer that truly this Easter, may you experience His life, death and most of all, the joy of His resurrection!

 

Just a note....we will be ministering in Osborne, Kansas, at Osborne Assembly of God for both morning and evening services.  You can call 785-346-2714 for more information.  The following Sunday, April 27, we will finally arrive in our  home state of South Dakota as we minister in Wagner, SD, at Wagner Community Church.  We hope to see you somewhere along the way!

 

Gloria

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"All our difficulties are only platforms for the manifestations of His grace, power and love."

 ~Hudson Taylor

 

 

 

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This made me think of the phrase..."When life gives you lemons...make lemonade!"

 

Lemonade Pie

 

1 small can frozen lemonade

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 small carton whipped topping

 

 

Line bottom of 8x8 inch pan with graham cracker crust or use a graham cracker pie crust.  Mix frozen lemonade and sweetened condensed milk with mixer.  Add whipped topping and fold in.  Put on top of graham cracker crust.  Chill or freeze.

 

 

 

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