A week ago Sunday, we held two morning services at the United Brethren Church in Hillsdale, Michigan, with Pastor Les Smith. What an energetic pastor with a vision for souls! He had just hosted the Power Team for the youth a couple weeks ago and they saw over 300 make decisions for Christ. Then, we came and ministered to families. The altar call was precious with the decisions totaling over 40 from people of all ages and walks of life.
After the first service, Ruth, 93 years old, took my hand, smiled gently and told me, "I just had to go up and pray to be sure that I was ready to meet God when I die." How many of you know that when you are 93 years old, you are close to the home office (heaven).
Another touching testimony was from a lady who was battling cancer who stepped forward to make a decision for Christ. When she responded, several of her adult family members also went forward to receive Christ. That was a tearful and joyous sight! Oftentimes God allows crisis to enter our life that we may draw closer to Him. I love His promises when He says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
From Hillsdale, Michigan, we journeyed on to LaGrange, Kentucky, which is located about 30 miles from Louisville, KY. Of course, Louisville, is the birthplace and home of Colonel Sanders and thus Kentucky Fried Chicken. Every time we drive through Louisville, I am reminded of when we were traveling with Lowell and Connie Lundstrom in the late 60's, early 70's. We sang and ministered at a large Assembly of God church in Louisville. It happened to be the one that Colonel Sanders attended at the time. On that particular Sunday morning, little LaShawn and I walked into the foyer and there sat Colonel Sanders in a chair with his white hair, white beard, twinkle in his eye and a cane in his hand. He greeted us, spontaneously scooped up our daughter, giving her an enthusiastic hug before setting her down again. Ecstatically she ran back to me and chirped, "Mom, he's Santa Claus!" Colonel Sanders giggled which caused his big belly to shake like Jello making one wonder....HA!
Anyway...we'll return now from memory lane to Kentucky currently. We were so delighted to be ministering once again at LaGrange Assembly of God. The last time we had the privilege of being there was in 2003. Since that time, they have added a beautiful sanctuary. It was such a 
joy to renew friendships with Pastor Barry Broyles and his wife, Mary Ann.
We love joining along with tender-hearted pastors like Pastor Broyles and Pastor Smith to reach people for Christ. We have found it true after our many years of traveling and ministering in churches all across the nation that if you have a loving pastor, you often have a loving congregation. This is certainly true of Hillsdale, MI, and LaGrange, KY.
Pastor Broyles had many young families attend the morning service. When we gave the invitation to accept Christ, over 30 people responded to make the Lord their Savior, of those many were first time decisions. Pastor Broyles shared the following with us:
"It was great having Larry and Gloria Lundstrom with us Sunday morning, November 2, 2008. The people were blessed as Larry and Gloria ministered in song and Word. During the altar call, 5 responded for salvation and 23 recommitted their lives to the Lord!
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lundstroms to any church that desires to see the lost saved and the church revived."
Fact 1: As each goose flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird that follows it. By flying in a "V" formation, the entire flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.
Lesson 1: People who share an interest or common direction can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling with the help of one another. That is what the church is all about.
Fact 2: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it. Get the point!
Lesson 2: Stay in formation. If you feel like you are falling out of relationship with God or falling out of the church, get back in quickly! You need the encouragement and fellowship of the believers.
Fact 3: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed and to communicate to them that they are behind them. Let's be like the geese and encourage those ahead of us.
Lesson 3: When we come to church and hear the Word of God preached, we are strengthened in our faith and daily lives. Like one pastor said, "Make sure our honking is encouraging and not critical or negative." Ooooo...that's a sermon all its own.
Yes, there is a lot we can learn from the birds in the air. Let's get in formation, move forward and encourage others along the way.
P.S. Election Day has come and gone. We pray that each of you made your voice heard exercising the treasured freedom we have in the United States of America to vote for our leaders. We also have a directive from our Lord to pray for our those in authority found in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
Recently, we were sent this e-mail and I thought it was a great reminder for us regardless of who stands in the White House...
TEN PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION:
ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS STILL IN CONTROL?
Finding one of her students making faces at the others on the playground, Mrs. Smith stopped to gently reprove the child. Smiling sweetly, the Sunday School teacher said, "Bobby, when I was a child, I was told that if I made ugly faces, it would freeze and stay that way."
Combine 2 cups apple juice and apples in skillet. Simmer gently and turn apples often with spatula until fork tender but not mushy. Remove with a slotted spoon to oven dish. In blender put remaining ingredients and blend a few seconds until smooth. Stir into hot juice in skillet and cook. Stir constantly on medium high until it bubbles and becomes thickened and smooth. Turn off heat and pour over apples. Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
When you are making hot bread or rolls, by the time that dinner is half way over the rolls are cold.
There is a quick and easy way to help keep them warmer. While your rolls are in the oven, grab some aluminum foil and line your bowl that the rolls will go in. Now just place a cloth napkin over it and no one will notice, but they will notice warmer rolls.
Tom Kelby along with a loving congregation. There were many young families in attendance. We loved seeing young couples bringing their children to Sunday School and church. The church was definitely filled with expectation and excitement. God fulfilled their desires and many responded to the altar call. Some of the responses included those making first time commitments to Christ. 
From Spooner, WI, we drove to the Shell Lake Full Gospel where our good friends and pastors, Vergil and Linda Amundson, have pastored for around 30 years. Each year, their church holds a Missions Conference. Pastor Vergil has been inviting us for the past few years to come and "take in". We finally worked it into our schedule, and we are so glad we did! What a time of refreshing it has been to meet and hear the testimonies of missionaries from literally all over the world. The speakers have been exceptional and we have been fed a spiritual buffet the last few days. We were encouraged to: Follow our calling, Dig deep into our prayer life and the Word, Know who we are in Christ...His righteousness, and basically, Never give up what God has called us to do...reach the Lost. 
traveled together. That moment set in motion God?s call on my life to be a missionary along with my husband, John, and our three children, Melissa, Shanda, and Vince. We 
minister in the jungles of Peru. It is really, really difficult but God is blessing and it is so rewarding."
came up to each of us and shared how our "Family to Family" ministry had touched their lives throughout the years. It was like God was shouting to me, "Gloria, no matter how tired you are or how hard it has been, it is worth it even if it was just for those you met today." After having been on such a wild schedule for the last few months, this convention was like a well of water to our spirits. 
we began sifting, sorting and purging through 23 years of ministry and personal items: stock, office equipment, archives, files, photos and the list goes on and on.
sound gear, and cases and cases of everything.
message of Jesus Christ.
School.
and they are the number one rated band and drumline in the state of Minnesota.
guests for the Fun and Fellowship tour to the National Quartet Convention and headed off to the hills of Kentucky. En route we saw many sights and tourist areas. On Thursday, September 11th, we pulled into Louisville, KY, filled with great anticipation for the National Quartet Convention. We were not disappointed! Not only were we entertained, but
we were deeply ministered unto by the Gold City Quartet, Legacy 5, Signature Sound, Gaither Quartet, Hoppers, Florida Boys, Kingsmen, Greater Vision, Pfeifers, and the award winning Booth Brothers. There were dozens and dozens of other groups that sang also from morning all the way to midnight. For all of our Southern Gospel lovers, they 
were definitely filled to the brim with good music! 
Our Mission: Cheyenne River Outreach, a two-day food and clothing distribution to be held on the local pow-wow grounds where we would also share the simple Gospel message meeting both physical and spiritual needs.
d to also partner with Melena Dugan of Operation Outreach located in Ohio and Convoy of Hope from Springfield, Missouri. We had two semi-trucks filled with food and clothing to distribute. We began the venture with setting up two tents, laying out massive lines of tables for the distribution and organizing thousands of articles of clothing. When all was said and
done, according to Craig Chadwick from Operation Outreach, we distributed 71,000 pounds of food which would feed 3,500 families. Before the food distribution, we sang and ministered under the tent about every hour and a half sharing the simple Gospel message and providing an opportunity for people to accept Christ through an altar call. The last estim
ate we received was that approximately 300-400 people received Christ. There was also much one-on-one witnessing, counseling and ministry taking place all over the grounds. Several bible study groups are being implemented in four communities to assist with the follow-up of these precious new believers.
Addie, the pastor of the Church of God in Eagle Butte, headed up the kitchen and feeding effort. On Friday, a free lunch was served to the gathering. We were thrilled to be joined by so many Native Americans joyously and enthusiastically helping out in all areas of the outreach helping their community. We were also delighted to have many of the clergy from the surrounding areas assist in the event in whatever way they could. 
Vanasse help with the counseling throughout the outreach. They did an outstanding job! Not only did they do counseling, but they helped set up the tents and inflatable activities for children, bag food, and help with the distribution of the many items. They served in whatever way they could also assisting in tearing everything down and clearing the grounds when the event was finished. Thank you! 
tance and the smiles on their faces after they prayed made all the effort worth it!
looked like a playground of giant gold cylinders. Then, as we neared the Missouri River, we were delighted to enjoy miles and miles of sunflower fields. If you have never visited the prairie lands of South Dakota, you must visit our great state. The sights of dancing deer and antelope, roaming buffalo, and thousands of pheasants and wild turkeys entertained us on the trip. I exclaimed, "This was truly a wonderful 'vacation drive' being able to enjoy God's beautiful creation and breathtaking scenery." The only downer of the trip was by the time we had gotten to the world renown Wall Drug, the mercury in the thermometer peaked at 103 degrees. Before arriving there, we read a billboard that said, "Wall Drug...Free Ice Water, Homemade Donuts, Pies and Ice Cream." Needless to say, the sign got Larry's attention and the suburban came to a much-welcome screeching halt. We got a 5 cent cup of coffee and a piece of homemade blackberry pie with some unforgettable homemade ice cream. We then took off again as HAPPY travelers!
offer. The younger generation and our families need our prayers, our Godly guidance, encouragement and seasoned advice. They need to hear the stories of our faith and of God's provision through the rough times.
overwhelming love and passion for the seniors. Their energy for ministry will never be forgotten. They poured their hearts and strength out to each one that attended. They shared the following regarding the retreat:
"My wife and I really appreciated your ministry at the S.D. Senior's Retreat in the Black Hills. Even though my wife and I are in our late 30's we enjoyed ourselves immensely. We brought 18 senior's from our church, and they all had a wonderful time. The ministry time was excellent, and the fellowship time refreshing. The messages you shared for the senior's ministered to my wife and I as well. 
We were happy to be invited back to minister with Pastor Scott and Nancy Jans in Fairbanks, IA at the Lord of the Harvest Lutheran church. There were smiles and joy during the whole service as we sang and ministered...especially at the altar call when they float up to the altar to make decisions for Christ and reaffirmations of their faith. Scott and Nancy's hearts burn with great fervor to see the lost come to Christ. 
We've known both Percy and Perry since they were about 4 yrs old and their parents were pastoring in North Dakota. They are two great guys and both are wonderful pastors. 
Larry took of Dean and Maggie it shows what happened when they prayed. Look at the joy that glows forth from them. Dean said, "This was the day. This was the appointed time for Maggie and I. We loved the service, the music and the message. When Larry gave the invitation, we knew it was for us and it was the right time. Now when we die we know we will go to heaven." 
tenor drum for Rosemont High School. They marched and performed that day. Last Monday their band was requested to play for over 3000 of Minnesota's school teachers and they received an overwhelming response. Dante said their appreciation made their whole summer practice worth it. 
our ministry back to the area.
From Harlan, we traveled over to Palmer, IA, to the Faith Lutheran Church pastored by our long-time friends, Pastor Dennis and Joan Niles. Joan prepared us a home-cooked meal of BBQ ribs, mashed potatoes,
received new strength. Again, Joan and I appreciate the ministry of the evangelist and Larry and Gloria establish a clear standard in that gift area. We pray God will give them wonderful open doors and hungry hearts."
on the road. She told us, "I had forgotten how good your ministry was. I'm so glad I came. It was great."
have known them since....well...since Larry and I were newlyweds.
with a ministry that the whole family enjoys.
Celebration.
twice.
the realization that they have to get back there somehow. Unbelievably...Ripley's believe it or not...they had one oar. Yes, I said ONE oar. Someone had forgotten to put the second oar in the boat. Need I tell you they were in trouble? You'll never get anywhere with one oar, you'll just go in circles. Thank God for those men with creative minds! Alan took his huge fishing net, and crisscrossed the net with bungicords. That was supposed to be the second oar (chuckle). Thus began the five hour trek back to land. Well, thankfully they made it back okay, but they will all tell you they definitely had sore arm muscles. Of course, you know me, I chuckled because it wasn't happening to me. That experience was an unexpected, added adventure for them. 
This true story so reminded me of life in general. How many times are we just sailing through life and it seems the motor of our life stalls, or something happens to stop us. I call those "bumps" in life. When Plan #1 falls apart, we rush into Plan #2. Often times it appears that we are going in circles, not making any headway. It's like having only one oar. In a panic we cry out to God, thankfully he throws us an "oar" of faith or perseverance to help us to keep paddling on. In the natural there are moments that it doesn't seem like we'll make it...but if we hold onto God's promises in His word...we eventually come through. Maybe not the way we planned, and maybe not without scars or disappointments, but we make it! 
Can it really be mid-July already? It seems like everything goes so fast I can hardly catch my breath. 
our family together in one place. I continually remind my nine brothers that I truly am their "favorite" sister. Of course they chuckle and say, "Yea...because you are our 
how Mom handled our sibling squabbles. If we got in a disagreement or fight, she would pull us both by the nape of the neck, put us face to face, and quietly, but firmly command, "Say, I'm sorry." Ewww! That was so frustrating! That was the last thing we wanted to say, but she made us do it anyway. We ground out the words, "I'm sorry" to each other. She would then command, "Now give him/her a kiss on the cheek." This was a punishment worse than getting a spanking. Very unwillingly, as she held us firmly in place by our shirt collar, we reluctantly gave each other the fateful kiss. We then gave each other a look that emphasized, "No sale!", but as soon as our eyes met, we would break out in laughter! In just moments, we were friends again until the next squabble arose. HA! Ohhh...the lessons we learned.
always encouraging, challenging, and uplifting to the Body of Christ.
his "Sword" with all of his notes and reflections in it. I tried to encourage him, "Honey, hopefully, if there is anything left of it, wherever it fell off or if anyone finds it, let's pray that person has the heart to send it back." Years ago, I had written in his bible, "If lost, please return to (our address). We would deeply appreciate it." We gave the problem of the lost bible to the Lord and Larry borrowed my bible for the service. 
orship leaders at Christian Life Center for nearly twelve years. Back in the mid-80's, Scott and Nancy, both single at the time, traveled with us in ministry on the road. Scott ran sound, sang and drove bus. Nancy sang and did whatever needed to be done. They went on to be married after they left Lundstrom Ministries. We are so proud of them and their ministry. I chuckled at what Nancy said, "Wow...you guys are ageless!" Whatever that means! HA! She continued, "You guys have been so faithful to stay out there all of these years touching lives. We had a lot of great memories being with your ministry."
eat impact in our communities. Tim was also a great help with helping set up and tear down at the park. This couple had the following comments regarding the service:
walk with the Lord. It was a beautiful evening and a wonderful day that the Lord blessed us with. We so appreciate Larry and Gloria and their heart to reach the lost and be a blessing to the Body of Christ. On a personal note, our family is always blessed by the time we get to spend with Larry and Gloria. Thanks again for coming to Glenwood!"
Last weekend, we were invited to minister at the Wadena Evangelical Church in Wadena, MN, with Pastor Jeff Heisler. I remember being in Wadena a few weeks after Larry and I were married in November 1965. Wow..my memory still works! Yea for me! We have returned several times through the years.
trimmings including a yummy birthday cake. That was so kind of them! Jack said the following about our time of ministry in Wadena:
Pastor Jeff has a burning desire to reach the lost for Christ. Many churches and pastors express that they want to reach the lost...but often it doesn't seem to get much further than the expression. Pastor Jeff set a goal for 2008 to reach 24 people for Christ: his heart is to reach the unchurched and unsaved, not transplants from another church As of last Sunday, before we came, he had 18 people make commitments, and he was believing God for another 6 by the end of the year in order to reach his goal. Then, Jeff said, "It is only June 29th and we have almost reached our goal. There is still a half a year left. We need to believe for a lot more!". God is definitely pouring out His blessings and giving Pastor Jeff the desire of his heart. As you can see by the altar response in the photo, God drew many who were searching and hungry for Him. 
e someone makes a commitment to Christ, he buys a special candle and places it withing a glass globe. The glass globe has their name etched on it along with the date they received Christ. He places them on the altar and lights them every Sunday morning. He has 18 candles burning representing the 18 who have given their lives to Christ this year thus far. What a moving sight! It is a great testimony and also a great motivation to bring in the lost so they might be saved. At the end of this year, he will present each convert this beautiful candle as a symbol and reminder of their commitment to Christ. He will be placing many more on the altar as a result of Sunday's altar call.
