Jesus at Macy's

"Therefore, Paul...reasoned in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there" (Acts 17:17).



Christmas really came to Macy's. Shoppers were pleasantly surprised when plain-clothed opera singers unexpectedly broke out singing "The Hallelujah Chorus.

It brought tears to my eyes watching people's reactions to this "random act of culture," and I was delighted to see the overwhelming approval at the end of the song.

Immediately I thought of how this kind of celebration is normal in heaven. All the angels rejoice when one sinner turns to Jesus.

And I thought, our lives ARE a concert of praise whenever we share our faith. Whether it's at the shopping mall, the auto body repair shop, or the grocery store. We can bring HIGH PRAISE to our Lord when we choose to share His love with others.

So here's the bottom line. Why let opera singers be the only ones bringing praise to Jesus? You and I have the great privilege of sharing Jesus in the marketplace daily with those who happen to be there.

Merry Christmas!

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Happy Thinksgiving

I just arrived home from India yesterday, and as a result of our three gospel and healing festivals, we saw over 10,000 people sign decision cards to receive or recommit their lives to Jesus Christ. How exciting is that?

At the gospel festivals, many people testified of miraculous healings: blind eyes and deaf ears opened, and people who had suffered from chronic pain were restored. We also had the privilege of dedicating four churches and six fresh-water wells, and conducting three pastor’s seminars and a women's conference.

While flying home from this very successful trip to India, and I was grateful for my 30-hour journey home, including the 15-hour non-stop flight from Mumbai to Newark. My father went to the Phillipine Islands during WWll, and it took them three weeks by ship, with men enjoying the pleasures of seasickness most of the way. So my trip looks rather easy! It all depends how you look at life.

Sir Moses Montetfiore, the Hebrew philanthropist, had as his family motto: “Think and Thank.’ The Old English language gives us the root for our word ‘thankfulness,’ and it means ‘thinkfulness.’ When we ‘think’ of all God’s goodness toward us, it fosters an attitude of thankfulness.

The late president of Wheaton College, V. Rayond Edman, wrote, “Paganism has no note of thanksgiving in its worship. Its people may have prayer wheels and make pilgrimages, but they have no song of praise. They have fetishes erected for fear of evil spirits, but they know nothing of a feast of gratitude for God’s goodness.”

Having just returned from India, we see the many holy days they honor in fear of not pleasing their millions of gods. The Hindus draw elaborate chalk designs in front of their houses, hoping the spirits will see their devotion and bring blessing instead of a curse. The Muslims must bow and pray five times per day, or they risk incurring the displeasure of Allah.

But Christianity is different. God is faithful even when we are not. His mercies are new every morning. He sends the rain on the just and the unjust. We are not those who live in constant fear of not measuring up to some unknown standard of holiness.

Rather, we praise and thank God for what He has done for us, and for Who He is...the Almighty God of love who reigns over all the world. And we try to live in such a way that would bring Him honor.

“To be grateful is to recognize the love of God in everything he has given us, and He has given us everything” (Thomas Merton).

So today, I want to thank God for the good memories of friends and supporters of Oasis like you...people who faithfully pray for and support the mission to take the gospel of Jesus to unreached and under-reached areas of the world. I also choose to think about and thank God for the trials I have been allowed to face, knowing He grows me to new levels of trust and faith.

Whatever you and your loved ones are facing this Thanksgiving season, I hope you will both THINK AND THANK GOD, recognizing that He is always with us, teaching us to trust Him more deeply....day by day.

HAPPY THINKSGIVING AND THANKSGIVING!

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Priming the Pump

"Give and it shall be given unto you, pressed down, shaken together and running over" (Luke 6:38a).

Once upon a time a man was lost in a vast desert; his tongue parched and thirst ravaging. Day after day he wandered without food or water, and he had reached the end of his strength.

All of a sudden, the man saw a water pump in the distance. Was it a mirage of his own desperation or was it an answer to prayer? When he arrived to the pump, he reached out his hand and grasped the steely metal. It was real. He eagerly began to raise the handle and pumped feverishly, but no water came out.

Then he read a note that was attached to the pump:

"Welcome to the only water well within 100 miles. This well can satisfy all your thirst and more. Hidden in the sand to the right is a bottle of water whereby you can prime the pump. Pour the water into the pump while pumping the handle, and you will have all the water you desire. While you may be tempted to drink the water from the bottle, please do not. If you do, there will be no more water for you or future guests. But if you pour out the water to prime the pump, you will have plenty. When finished drinking, please fill the bottle again and bury it in the sand for those yet to come who also will be dying of thirst. Enjoy!"

What's the moral of the story? It's only when we lose our life that we find it. It's when we give to others, that we also receive ourselves. If life is only about me and my needs, I will still be thirsty. But if I care about others in need, my needs will also be met.

When we care about others who are spiritually dying of thirst, then we also drink freely ourselves. When we love generously, it somehow returns to us generously. When we share our faith, our love for Jesus ignites all over again. But when we are self-centered, we never have enough.

Will you stop the rat-race today and ask God to bring someone into your path that needs a drink of living water? Ask them if life is treating them well. Ask them how you can pray for them. Reach out to someone in need... today. You won't regret it... God guarantees it.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Secret of Leadership

"For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you"
(John 13:15).

"You can't teach culture. You have to live it. You have to experience it. You have to share it. You have to show it." These are words from Brent Harris, a top executive for Nordstrom, the retail chain known for legendary service.

Mac Anderson of Successories fame says, "To change any culture, in any company, the people at the top have to live it! Because words without deeds mean nothing!"

Nothing speaks louder than our actions. Jesus led by example in many ways: suffering, patience, returning good for evil, speaking the truth in love, compassion, fellowship and so much more.

When it comes to sharing our faith, Jesus was the premier example. He spent himself on others, especially the outcast, the poor, and the sick. He interacted with people at all levels. He practiced what He preached. He took His gospel outside the synagogue. He was a leader.

My friend, if you are a leader.... lead by example. The Bible says it well. "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify the Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Christians... should be the most polite, respectful and courteous people in town.

Christians... should be the first to serve, to show compassion, and to help the helpless.

Christians... should be great listeners, engaged in people's lives at home, work, and play.

Christians... should be politely vocal, expressing what Christ has done to open hearts.

In other words, take the lead. Show other Christians that you are serious about engaging and changing your culture. Show other Christians that you don't just talk about sharing your faith... you actually do it!

C'mon, let's lead together. Let's change our world.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

It's Your Funeral

“Let us think of ways to motivate one anther to acts of love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24; NLT).

Recently I attended Bob’s funeral. He was a godly man and a good friend. People tearfully told me about his passion for business, nutrition, exercise, and spirituality. But the thing Bob was most known for, was spurring others on to good works. He believed in people and their dreams. In fact, different people testified to how Bob’s help and wisdom had changed their future.

The Old Testament talks about two guys named Aaron and Hur who did this for Moses. Whenever Moses held his arms up in praise to the Lord, Israel advanced. But after hours of doing it on his own, his arms grew weary.

So Aaron and Hur stepped in to help Moses raise his arms. Whenever they held Moses up, Israel prospered in battle. And whenever they let his arms down, Israel faltered and the enemy gained ground.

Do you remember people who have held you up? I remember specific people who have held me up through their support, encouragement, and prayers behind the Oasis vision to see one million people come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. These supporters bring tears to my eyes. It energizes me and gives me the ability to keep going forward, because I know that am not alone in this quest.

I would certainly love to learn from my friend, Bob. So what will people say at my funeral? I would like to be known for pursuing my God-given dreams, as well as help others fulfill theirs.

What about you? What will people say about you at your funeral? There’s still time to make a difference in other people’s lives and vision. Why not ask God to send you to someone who could use some encouragement today? Ask them about their vision, dream with them, and run the race with them like it is your very own.

Who knows? You may need someone to spur you on someday.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Holy Desire

He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing bringing his harvest with him” (Psalm 126:6).

I don’t always ‘want to’ share my faith. My ‘desire to witness’ button is not always pushed. Sometimes I don’t want to share my faith, because I don’t ‘feel’ like it. The more I ignore my desire, the less I think about it. And when I keep my desire at bay, I lose the inner promptings and convictions to share my faith.

Last week my wife and stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few items. While my wife shopped, I stayed in the car. I could have checked my email or played some games on my phone, but I noticed some teens sitting on the curb. Then the thought entered my mind that this would be a great opportunity to share my faith with them. I didn’t feel like getting out of my car, and I didn’t feel like entering into a potentially awkward conversation with strangers.

So, where did this ‘desire to witness’ come from? It probably came because I have been participating in a weekly faith sharing class, or it may have been an answer to prayer in the form of a divine appointment. If so, the promptings would likely fade away if I ignored them, so without letting my ‘feelings’ dictate my actions, I got out of the car and begin to interact with these teens.

Do you know what happened? In only fifteen minutes, I had connected with these teens, shared my faith, and two of them prayed with me to accept Jesus as their Lord, right there on the curbside! My walk back to the car was loaded with ‘feelings’…great feelings! I was so glad that my initial feelings didn’t prevent me from missing out on this eternal blessing.

I have come to believe that our actions must precede feelings. When I act out what I know is right, regardless of how I feel, good feelings eventually follow. I think God calls it walking by faith, and this makes Him smile.

My prayerful goal is that my “want to” will remain higher than my “don’t want to.” If I have a holy desire, it can turn into a holy discipline, which will bring a holy delight!

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
President/Evangelist
www.oasisworldministries.org

Multi-Colored World

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

I continue to have the awesome and wonderful privilege of representing our Lord Jesus Christ in India. I will never forget one morning's adventure when I shared my "One-Minute Witness" with a young man who was cleaning my hotel room. Shortly after that, I prayed with him to receive Christ's forgiveness and salvation.

Later on, I went to the hotel's rooftop terrace for a time of devotions. While I was reading from my Bible, a young man approached me and asked for prayer. Then two other men joined us, and then three more. I shared with them how Jesus is the only 'one true God,' and I told them about the tremendous healings we had recently seen at our Gospel and Healing Festivals. It turns out that three of these men were Christians; two were Hindu, and the other a Muslim.

After presenting the gospel, I asked the young men if they would like to pray to Jesus as their 'one true God.' To my delight, they all said, "yes." So I reached out my white-colored hand, and six dark-colored hands joined mine. Then I placed my other white-colored hand to sandwich their hands between mine. We all prayed aloud: three Christians, two Hindus, and a Muslim...all praying to Jesus Christ!

What a great picture: men from three different ethnic backgrounds
praying to Jesus for His wonderful forgiveness!

After I said, "Amen," I asked the Muslim man, "What happened when you prayed?" A big smile gripped his face as he said, "I have happiness in my heart."

The Bible says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). The word "nations" is "ethnos" in the Greek language. It is where we get our word "ethnic." You don't have to go to India anymore to find ethnic diversity. The world is multi-colored everywhere you look.

Let's take the gospel to all races, colors, and creeds. After all, no matter what our backgrounds are, we all have red blood, and we all are looking for the same thing...Christ's love!

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Happy as Hell?

“What shall it profit a man if he gains the world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36)

In my opinion, most Christians don’t believe in hell. Sometimes I wonder, how much do I? It’s an inconvenient truth...and downright uncomfortable to talk about.

I don’t like the idea of an eternal hell anymore than you do. Neither does God. But His justice demands its existence, just like our laws demand prisons, solitary confinement, life sentences, death row, and even the death penalty.

Rebelling against God is the worst capital offense.

Consider this: Preachers don’t preach about hell. It’s rare to hear the word ‘hell’ preached from a pulpit. I only remember one sermon during my growing up years, and you guessed it, it was about hell. It’s a morbid subject, and frankly, it’s easier to hear about grace than judgment. But Jesus talked a lot about both.

I was in a gas station just two days ago, and a guy was buying a big pork bone for his dog. He said, “My dog will love this. This bone will make my dog 'Happy as Hell' for three days."

I thought, “Happy as Hell?” That’s an oxymoron. Where did we get that expression?! Last time I read the Bible there’s no happiness in hell.

But believers don’t like to warn others about hell. The vast majority of Christians will live their entire lives without ever introducing someone to Jesus and sharing His plan of salvation. Most Christians don’t share their faith.

William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, was a Bible-believing preacher. He wished that every Christian could hang over the burning flames of hell for 24 hours. If we did, we would never be the same again...and I think he’s right.

But the Bible is very clear. For instance, the Bible says: “It is appointed unto man once to die, and after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27), and “What shall it profit a man if he gains the world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36), and “Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell” (Luke 12:5).

Here’s the point. If the Bible is true, which it is, then hell is as real as heaven. If hell isn’t real, then we must discard the whole Bible. Hell is a prison sentence meant for the devil, and for whoever decides to reject God's love and His priceless sacrifice.

Maybe instead of ignoring the subject, Christians ought to plunder hell to populate heaven! Maybe those in hell wished that they had heeded the answer we know.

There is hope for every human! Let’s stop pretending hell doesn’t exist, and let’s start telling people the whole truth...for heaven’s sake!

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Being His Witness

“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you shall BE My witnesses” (Acts 2:4).

Okay, this is not for the squeamish or for those who live by making excuses.

The very idea of “going witnessing” strikes rabid fear in most Christians. No one likes doors slammed in our face, rejection, being labeled a “fanatic” or facing questions we aren’t equipped to answer.

In fact, it’s a fairly common belief that evangelism is for those who are “called” or “gifted” do the evangelizing.

But isn’t evangelism for all of us who follow Jesus Christ? Aren’t we ALL called to be His ambassadors and His voice? Aren’t you glad someone shared Jesus with you?

For many of us, “going witnessing” has been reduced to short-term mission trips, special outreaches, and inviting people to attend Easter and Christmas productions. Sharing Jesus has been assigned to a tiny and infrequent part of our life.

“Going witnessing” takes a lot of preparation…. mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I have to make time for it and get psyched up for it. It feels like a reluctant visit to the dentist’s office. I know I should go, but I don’t enjoy going.

We can do better.

Here’s my solution… let’s not GO witnessing; let’s BE His witness… everyday!

“Being His witness” means that I am ALWAYS ready, able, and looking for “divine appointments.” I don’t have to get psyched up. I just live my life ready to be His mouthpiece. When I live my life as being His witness, than each day becomes ‘normal Christianity.’ The fear factor diminishes, and I’m excited to experience how God can use me each and every day.

I think this is what New Testament evangelism looked like. It was part and parcel of who they were. Going witnessing is out… “being His witness” keeps my flame for Him burning brightly.

C’mon, the excuses are getting old. Let’s replace them with Being His witness… together!'

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Evangelism Entrepreneurs

The Bible says..."Your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions" (Joel 2:28).

Today I want to you to dream with me. We dream about our families, our new jobs, our vacations. In fact, sometimes the dreaming is more fun that the actual event.

Will you dream about what 'could be' for the gospel that currently is 'not yet'? This kind of dreaming requires that we talk about the one thing in life we cannot control... change. Change is the one thing that is constant in life.

Global change is happening socially, culturally and spiritually. In this world you cannot stand still and cling to old ways. The pressure to change will always continue. But change for change's sake is not always healthy. It should have an end-goal.

So before we automatically resist our journey of change, we must remember that God may be in the silver lining. In fact, the voice directing the change is often His. So we must be open. We have heard the phrase, 'different methods...same message.'

I remember hearing Franklin Graham say that the music in his "Rock the River" crusades was NOT his kind of music, but he embraced it because it will reach the youth of our day. He changed the method, but NOT the message, and he reaches thousands of youth.

As Christians, we are to actively seek heaven's vision and strategic ideas that will outsmart the devil's strategies of destructive change.

So, how do we reach our changing world?

By applying the time-worn Biblical principles that have always worked in every culture, in every age. Principles like humility, brokenness, compassion and intentional proclamation of Christ's love.

When the fearful disciples were filled with the Spirit in the book of Acts, they suddenly became agents of great change. In fact, they 'turned the then-know world of Asia minor upside down.'

Today is no different. We desperately need Spirit-led entrepreneurs to find innovative and creative ways to spread the gospel. And we also must revive time-proven, classical ways that keep reaching others with Christ's love. The goal of taking the gospel to Main Street and Wall Street must remain strong. And we should all be asking the Holy Spirit for His ideas, no matter how much sacrificial change it may require.

But here's one thing that has never changed: Christ's mandate for evangelism! Our job regarding evangelism is clear, and our vision must correspond.

C'mon Spirit-led evangelistic entrepreneurs, arise! We need you for such a time as this.
Well, that's all for today, but until next week remember, 'you have the good news that people are longing to hear. God bless you as you become 'HIS EVERYDAY WITNESS!'

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

NO FEAR!

"So they departed from the presence of the council (after being beaten), rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ" (Acts 5:41-42).

Perhaps you have seen people wear hats that model this phrase...'NO FEAR.'

I don't believe them.

Fear is ubiquitous. We all deal with it to some degree. Even the boldest people know it's always hovering in a corner trying to intimidate them. They just choose to ignore it.

And so, I was intrigued when I read of the incredible transformation of the apostles. They all fled as Jesus was arrested, but now are beaten for sharing their faith, and yet daily they still continue sharing openly.

Fear no longer ruled them. Isn't that our desire?

Remember when fear was little in your life, and faith was big?
Remember when you didn't care who knew you were a Christian?
Remember when compassion filled your heart more than fear?
Remember when you were actually excited about your friends coming to Christ?

Here's what happens to all of us.

When we don't continue to apply the truths in God's word, our heart begins to become calloused. Teaching without application hardens our hearts. It's a fact, when we ignore God's plan for us to be salt and light, our desire to be salt and light gradually diminishes.

The solution? They eagerly invited the Holy Spirit to fill them with His power. They prayed and prayed for it to happen. And when it did, they chose to not waste another day. Any suffering would now be considered a badge of honor. Any rejection they experienced would be a trophy of rejoicing.

Oh yes, the fear still hovered in a corner, but it no longer ruled them.

"God, let it be so in us... for Your glory."

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Untapped Gold Mine of 'God Dreams'

"Listen to your servants who delight in honoring you...and make me successful today so that I get what I want from the king" (Nehemiah 1:11, Message Bible).

There are 'good-dreams,' and there are 'God-dreams.'

Nehemiah knew that 'God-dreams' always gave God the glory. They were not birthed in selfishness or arrogance to build his career. They didn't have a mixed motive. 'God dreams' are conceived in God's heart, and then planted in man's heart. But man must make the decision to fertilize these 'God dreams' by faith... or not.

Nehemiah wept when he heard how the beloved city of Jerusalem lay in ruins. Only a few people were left, and they were living in appalling conditions. The Jews had blown it again and had forgotten their God. They gave themselves to other gods, and the One True God lost patience with them. He allowed them to be captured and become prisoners until they came to their senses.

But Nehemiah had a 'God-dream.' He said, "I can make a difference." It's time for Jerusalem to be rebuilt. And so he prayed with humble confidence.... "make me successful today."

What would hinder you from praying that kind of prayer? Fear of failure, unbelief, and a lost first-love? Risk is a measurement of the amount of sacrifice vs. the amount of reward. In this case, Nehemiah chose to be a player, no matter what the cost. His reward was to bring glory to God. He couldn't waste another day.

In my last trip to India, the Oasis team and I trained pastors in the 'One-Minute Witness faith-sharing tool, and then we went out into the streets to share our faith stories. Afterward, a pastor said, "I used to share my faith years ago. I am sorry to see how many years I have wasted by not sharing my faith. Now I will do this... everyday."

What 'God-dreams' are within you just bursting with potential and waiting to be fulfilled? Do you have any 'God-dreams' that are still bridled and stifled within you?

TODAY God desires you to be successful in making His name famous. So, go ahead...activate the 'God-dream' within you. If it's for His glory, it's worth the risk.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Sinner Friends

"Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained saying, 'This Man receives sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:1-2).

I am intrigued by the responses I have received whenever I have shared my faith with sinners:

• Businessman: "You are right; I need to give my spiritual life more attention."
• Man who had sex change: "Would you pray for me?"
• Carpenter: "I realize God is trying to get my attention."
• Airline agent: "I would rather not talk about it."
• Another airline agent: "I can't thank you enough for sharing with me today."
• Restaurant hostess: "Dear Jesus, please forgive me of my sin."

Luke 15 is one of my favorite chapters in the whole Bible. Once again, Jesus upset the religious status quo, this time by reaching out and befriending sinners and tax collectors. The local tax collectors were not held in high esteem, to say the least. They were the scum at the bottom of the barrel.

But Jesus went out of His way to make a point about who He esteems. He shares three stories: the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7), the lost coin (Luke 15:8-10), and the lost son (Luke 15:11-32). It's as if Jesus cares more about the lost than the found.

Why? Because His mission is clear: seek and save the lost (Luke19:10).
Why? Because Jesus did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance (Mark 2:17).
Why? Because God is love (1 John 4:7-8).

That's right... Jesus loves sinners. He can't help Himself... it's part of His holy DNA. After all, He saved you and me, and He loves us enough to having left His holy heaven to demonstrate His great love. Each and every day God's Holy Spirit is drawing sinners of all kinds: liars, cursers, sex addicts, homosexuals, robbers and cheats to His love. These He esteems!

Here's our challenge. Are we mature and complete enough in our faith to befriend sinners on His behalf? Having received God's magnificent love, do we love enough to share Him with sinners? OR, will we stay in our holy huddles, our churches and our small groups praying for God to send someone else?

Go ahead... ask Jesus for more 'sinner-friends.' It's why He rose again.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

7,000 decisions for Christ in two weeks!

May 18, 2010
As I write this, I am on a seven-hour train ride in India on my way home. I wish you could have been here and have seen the desperate and passionate spiritual hunger of the people in these remote areas of India. As soon as I return to the office, I'll unpack the videos and photos of this tremendous hunger and provide links for you to see it for yourselves.

THANK YOU for your faithful prayers. Pastor Darrell Dobbelmann and myself just finished two five-day Gospel and Healing Festivals. Around 7,000 people made decisions to follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior! We praise God for this fruit! In addition, 23 fresh-water wells were drilled at villages that did not have clean drinking water, and we held dedication services for four newly built churches.

These churches mark the first Christian worship facilities in these villages. We also conducted two Ignite the Fire Training Seminars where over 400 pastors and Christian leaders received encouragement and equipping over the course of each three-day seminar.

Darrell felt that the Lord had showed him that someone would testify of a tumor dissolving that night. Sure enough, after we prayed for the sick, a bubbling and smiling woman came to the platform and told us about a tumor that she had for two years. After prayer that night, the tumor disappeared! Many others testified of having years of chronic body pain that had instantly vanished.

As Darrell and I return home, we are both tired from a busy schedule in 110-125 degree heat, and grateful for the spiritual satisfaction of taking part in this mission for God's glory! Thanks again for your prayers and financial support. Together, we are making a difference!

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Hell, yes!

"but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" (Jude 1:23, NKJ).

OK, it's time for some serious talk. Remember the compulsory talk you had with your kids about the 'birds and the bees'? It was a killer, but it had to be done. So here's another 'hot' topic... hell.

Watch this video The Bible makes over 150 references to a real hell; Jesus often talked about it. Our doctrinal statements validate it, but do we really believe in it? After all, talking about an eternal place of separation from God is a very uncomfortable subject.

When you hear about the reality of hell, do you discount the messenger and label the message as radical or imbalanced? Or are you challenged to be more intentional about sharing your faith with those who do not know Jesus? We tend to avoid that which makes us uncomfortable: writing our own wills, getting regular physical check-ups, talking about death, or sharing our faith. But thinking about hell is something we should never avoid, because souls are at stake.

Thinking about hell actually motivates us to share our faith with more urgency. In fact, General William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army, was quoted as wishing that everyone could dangle over hell for one hour, held only by a single thread, for then we would live differently.

Statistics tell us that around 87.5% of Americans believe in heaven, but only 74.6% believe in hell (Word Press poll). But I'm guessing that the people who believe in the existence of a real Biblical hell are a lot less. Why? It's simple. Our actions sometimes defy our doctrine. For instance, what if our neighbor's house were on fire and we knew we should save them, but we didn't. Every second someone dies and a soul goes into eternity. And every month that we live without sharing our faith reinforces our denial of an eternity that includes both heaven and hell.

If you knew your unsaved friend would certainly die in 24 hours, wouldn't you at least try to lead them to the cross of Christ? (Hint: Our answer to this question helps us know what we really believe.) Wouldn't a doctor be held liable if he knew you had cancer and didn't tell you? How would you feel? Questions like these help us know what we confess to believe.

Here's the point. Jesus told us that our world is suffering from a terminal disease... sin. He has entrusted us as His followers with an assignment to lovingly warn the world about the effects of its sin. But His command goes unfulfilled when we choose to be silent. I, myself, am ashamed to know how many opportunities I have intentionally missed. Thank God for His grace in helping me become a more effective and intentional witness.

It's time we begin to take action on our beliefs.
It's time to cherish each of our days as a gift best lived for God and for others.
It's time to celebrate Easter everyday by telling others how Jesus has changed our lives.
It's time to make hell mad ...and heaven glad!

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. General William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army, was quoted as wishing that everyone could dangle over hell for one hour, held only by a single thread, for then we would live differently. Perhaps this powerful video on a man's journey to hell and back will have a similar effect. It's called "23 minutes in Hell"

Returning to the Great Harvest

Once again I'm leaving for the great harvest field of India. My heart is filled with great anticipation for thousands of people to be saved and healed by the power of the one true God, Jesus Christ.

Will you please pray daily for the Oasis team as we travel May 4-18?

Prayer is the best investment you can make. We desperately need prayer to cover us, our families, our health, our protection, and our spirits. Pray that the strong anointing of the Holy Spirit will rest on Darrell Dobbelmann, myself, and the Oasis team as we minister with the people of India.

In this two-week trip, we will...

• Conduct two 5-day open-air Gospel and Healing Festivals
• Facilitate two 3-day Ignite the Fire Training Seminars for Pastors and Christian Leaders
• Dedicate four newly constructed church buildings
• Dedicate 20 fresh-water wells that have been drilled in villages without clean running water
• And interview three more national evangelists, for a total of 30

Would you also pray for the final funding for our national evangelists? One of our goals this year is to have support raised for 30 full-time national evangelists from India. Each evangelist is currently winning an average of 7,500 people per year to the Lord--around $1 a soul. We now have funding for 29-1/2. We only need to raise another $3,750. If God would lead you to be a part of making this happen, please call us at 763-425-9355 or visit oasisworldministries.org/donate.

Thanks for your prayers. For specific prayer requests, visit oasisworldministries.org/prayerrequests.

As we pray for others, God begins to send His favor back to us!

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Learning to Laugh at Ourselves

It was laughable that Abraham and Sarah would have a child now. After all, Abe was 100 years old, and Sarah not much younger. What would people think? This was so out-of-the-box that God would give them their promised son at such a ridiculous age, that they decided to laugh along with God. So they named their son 'Isaac'... meaning 'laughter.' Yet God was fulfilling His promise to give them a son who would influence the whole world.

Sometimes we get way too serious, starchy and stiff when it comes to God's promise to make us His witnesses. Maybe we need to learn to laugh at ourselves a little. After all, isn't God ordering our steps (Proverbs 16:9), just like Abraham and Sarah? If we need a good laugh, just look in the mirror! God has chosen US to be His ambassadors?!

Picture this likely conversation in heaven:

God: "Gabriel, I am going to challenge Tom Elie to share his faith everyday. You see, Tom has a problem, while he speaks to thousands from pulpits and international stages, he is scared to share his faith one-on-one. I know it seems odd that fear would rule him, but it's true. Even though he is afraid of failure, he is deciding to run right at his fears. And I will run with him."

God: "Gabriel, he doesn't know it yet, but this decision to share his faith daily will transform his life... and many others. Let's watch Tom together... this will be fun."

Someday we will get to watch heaven's videos of our life's metamorphosis. We will watch ourselves going from timid, to tender, to tenacious... and we will all laugh along with God!



Let's start now. Here's a hilarious video I found called Linebacker Evangelism. Let's learn to laugh at our shortcomings. God is!

Laughing while learning,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

The Culture of Self

"And take heed to yourselves lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares"(Luke 21:34).

Have you ever met someone who likes to talk about themselves? I have... me.

I enjoy talking about personal experiences in the past, and vision for the future. Maybe all of us do to a degree. Some people focus continually on their problems. But being consumed with ourselves is both dangerous and addicting.

I wrote the above verse in the old King James version, because I wanted us to see the word 'surfeiting.' It means 'given to continual overeating.' Does that describe us? We are a generation given to consumption in many areas. And once this is a habit, then it becomes an entitlement. Soon we deserve all the 'goodies' of life, and we deserve even more. We never compare ourselves with half the world that earns $4/day or less, but with our neighbor who has something we don't.

Today let's repent for selfishness, and all that comes with it. Jesus has called us to a higher call. He said if we lose our life we will find it. Let's pray.

Let's pray for ourselves.

Dear Lord,

I am sorry for being so focused on myself and my needs, which are often just greeds. Forgive me for laying down my cross instead of daily taking it up. Forgive me for demanding my own way, and judging others in my heart as not as good as myself. This is simply pride, and I repent. Change my heart. Show me how to learn something valuable from every person I meet by listening more than speaking.

Let's pray for our city and country.

Dear Lord,

We humble ourselves today, and acknowledge that any good thing we have is a gift from you. Any good thing we have accomplished happened because You gave us the ability to make it happen. Forgive us for our prideful and independent spirit. Help us be agents of change in our city by humbly giving all the glory to You for any good in us.

Let's pray for the global advance of the gospel.

Dear Lord,

You warned us to not be consumed with ourselves, lest we lose track of Your soon return. Awaken the eyes of not only the unreached, but especially of the reached, to see again the urgency of the hour. Bring the worldwide church back to their first love again. Revive us, so we will be like the virgins who had their lamps full of oil, eagerly waiting your return. In Jesus' mighty name we pray, amen.

Releasing God's Favor

"The goodness of God leads men to repentance" (Romans 2:5).

I recently heard evangelist Ed Silvosa say something insightful and yet simple. He remarked that if we want to get favor with unsaved people, do them a favor!

Jesus also said it, "Whatever you would like men to do to you, do also the same to them" (Matthew 7:12). And again, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).

The first thing we should do is pray. Pray that God will show us how to love others without expecting anything in return.

The next thing we should do is to find a way toreach out to unsaved people with a favor. Here's some ideas:

• Go out of your way to ask questions about their family
• Look for unexpected ways to bless them
• Offer authentic compliments
• Show neighborly hospitality
• Take them out to eat

An unexpected act of kindness will be remembered long after the act is finished.

Recently a family friend came up to me, looked me in the eye, and said something that both impressed and blessed me. "You have a marvelous son,"she said. Then she went on to give specific examples of the character traits she saw in my son. It made my day! But I was also reminded of the tremendous power of thoughtful words. Later as I told my wife of this incident, (since it's her son, too!) I said that we should try harder to make our words an unexpected, but true, gift of love.

Can I encourage us to ask people about themselves before we talk about ourselves?

Let the first nine words from our mouths bring life."It's so good to see you," or "I've been hoping I could see you again to tell you how much I appreciate you," or "It's always a joy to run into you," or "You're looking younger every time I see you." Well, don't stretch the truth too much, but you get the point. The Bible tells us that 'faith without works is dead.' Let's model a living faith by doing unexpected favors for people.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

What is God's Will?

"I delight to do Your will, O my God" (Psalm 40:8a).

My teenage years were great... filled with fun, friends, and loving parents. But one question seemed to never leave me... 'God, what is Your will for my life?' What career should I choose, whom should I marry, where should I live, and what school should I attend are all major decisions for which I have needed God's wisdom!

As a ninth grader we were assigned to write about three possible career choices that interested us. I remember mine clearly... an evangelist, an FBI agent, and a policeman. They all seem to have lots of excitement. And in retrospect, it's interesting that all three involve helping people find justice.

We all want to know our God-given purpose. But at times, our steps seem uncertain like walking up an icy, slippery sidewalk. Some people live their whole life searching for God's will.

So how do we know God's will? Let's take a look at David, who was a man after God's own heart. Listen to how he describes his quest:

"I delight to do Your will, O my God" (Psalm 40:8).
"I do not restrain my lips" (Psalm 40:9).
"I have not hidden Your righteousness in my heart" (Psalm 40:10).
"I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation" (Psalm 40:10).
"I have not concealed Your loving-kindness" (Psalm 40:10).

David found that if he delighted in God with all his heart, and helped others find God's love, he would be in the will of God. Did you get that? David was determined to share God's love with others; he was not ashamed that Jehovah was his God! After that, he seemed confident that God's will for life's specifics would eventually become clear. Affirming this he wrote, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart" (Psalm 34:7). In the book of Psalms David repeatedly reminds us how we find the 'sweet spot' of God's presence when we give ourselves to disciplined prayer.

When we make God the main thing, everything else seems to work out.

Luke was also clear as to the will of God: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind' ; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself'" (Luke 10:27). Matthew said it right. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33). So we can conclude that if we continuously pursue these main two goals, God's favor and wisdom will be extended to us for every other decision.

So, what's God's will? Let's follow the examples of David, Luke, and Matthew. Love God passionately today, but don't hold it in your heart. Let it out through your lips. Declare the glory of God both privately and publicly. Don't confine his glory to a church service or seal it within your heart. Reveal His magnificent, life-changing glory through your life to others!

It's God's will.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Inch by Inch Evangelism

If the disciples learned any two lessons from the feeding of the five thousand, it was this:

LITTLE BECOMES MUCH WHEN IT'S IN THE HANDS OF GOD.
GOD USES ORDINARY PEOPLE TO ACCOMPLISH THE EXTRAORDINARY. Mother

Teresa was said to have told someone that God wanted her to build an orphanage. They asked her, "how much money do you have towards this project?" She answered, "Seven pennies." They responded, "You can't build an orphanage for seven pennies!" She answered, "I know I can't, but I can with seven pennies and God!"

Let me ask you 3 important questions: Why are we so quick to dismiss impossible thoughts concerning evangelism? Why does our flesh automatically try to shoot down any thoughts of really reaching our communities for the Lord? Why do we so easily listen to the negative reports instead of God's promise to be with us?

I will tell you one of the main reasons: FEAR OF FAILURE.

Someone was asked how they accomplished such great things in their lifetime. They responded, "INCH BY INCH IT'S A CINCH. YARD BY YARD IT'S HARD." Let's stop listening to the voice of fear. Let's patiently do the task that God has set before us. If we stay focused and do something daily to reach our goal, we will, by God's grace, reach it!

That's why I like to challenge myself to SHARE MY FAITH EVERYDAY. Some days I miss great opportunities, but most I don't. I have found such joy in taking one day at a time and letting my testimony be heard one person at a time. And with God's help, I have seen happen what I thought impossible. I have had the privilege of praying with 16 people to receive Jesus in the last six months outside of my evangelist role.

How did it happen? Intentionally sharing my faith daily in my world, inch by inch.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Over 15,000 decisions for Christ!

I am writing this in India as we are getting ready to board the plane for home. All in all, we had an incredible trip. Our team of 11 was fantastic! Everyone pitched in with the heart of a servant to see these incredible results.

During the course of this wonderful trip we conducted four Gospel and Healing Festivals where we saw God's glory touch many people. Over 15,000 decision cards were signed by the spiritually hungry people of India as they thronged to the front of the stage to accept Jesus as their 'One True God.' Scores of grateful people testified to having received major healings and miracles. Four churches were built and 28 wells were drilled in remote villages that were without a Christian worship facility and nearby fresh water.

One of the most fun and unexpected times I had in India was when we were checking out of one of our hotel. We had already led several bell boys to the Lord, but now some of their friends were gathered around our car. They too wanted to hear the gospel and receive Jesus.

We got in a huddle, joined hands, and they all gave their lives to Christ. The next week I unexpectedly popped into the hotel and brought two of the bell boys to church with us the next morning. They said they were reading their Bibles and praying daily!

Thank you, thank you and thank you for all your prayers and support. Please now pray for this fruit to remain and that these people will be integrated into churches and the families of believers.

Calling All Seniors

"They shall bear fruit in old age. They shall be fresh and flourishing to declare that the Lord is upright" (Psalm 92:14-15).

As people get older, sometimes they think that God is done with them, and can only use the younger generation. But I love the story of Caleb, Moses, Abraham and others who believed God when they were over 80 years old. In fact, Caleb said he still had the same strength of vision at 80 as he did at 40! Others say that my brain is young, it's just my body that is getting creaky.

Today's youth desperately needs MENTORS, people who have run the race and are finishing strong. Your life is not over until it's over! Somehow I think we never retire from serving Jesus or spreading the gospel.

Some of my greatest heroes are still alive, preaching, loving and sharing their faith. This inspires everyone, because the vision for the increase of God's kingdom never quits.

My dad, who passed into heaven this last July, was one of my greatest models. He could hardly pray over dinner without weeping and thanking God for the privilege of being His child. My dad kept fighting the good fight of faith right up until his home going. He loved to tell others about the goodness of God and did so often.

Seniors, we need you! Please ask your pastor for a young person you can mentor. Go sit in the youth group and watch them worship the Lord. It may be louder and different than you grew up with, but their energy and fire is contagious.

And your loving wisdom will be soaked up like a sponge.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

Oasis prayer and praise report from India

It is Sunday night in India. In two hours we begin our final night of our second Gospel and Healing Festival in Jonnigiri, Andhra Pradesh, India.

We continue to see a wave of God's mercy and grace as literally thousands have come to Christ during our first two weeks in India. In addition to those coming to know Jesus for the first time, God has blessed many with physical healings. One of which was a hysterical woman who came to the altar area. I didn't know if she was demon-possessed or if God had touched her mightily. As she weeped tears of joy, she testified that God had completely removed from her 12 years of constant major headache pain. (See her reaction by clicking on this video.)


Another man testified that he had been stone deaf for 20 years. During prayer on the second night of our festival, he regained his hearing in one ear and then on the fourth night during prayer he regained the hearing in his other ear! We brought both people to the platform the final night to share the amazing miracles Jesus had done for them.

Thanks for your prayers. We are doing double duty this week. While I conduct a Gospel and Healing Festival, Pastor George Bunnell and Craig Moore will be conducting one at another location. And next week Darrell Dobbelmann starts his Gospel and Healing Festival.

For His glory alone,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. Please continue praying...we depend on it every day! Our final festival will be held at a town of around 25,000 which has never had a open-air gospel and healing festival before.

The need to be accepted

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

We found that the first mutual need every human has is the need for love. We must both give it and receive it. God lovingly set the benchmark at the cross.

The second common need we all share is the need to be needed. We crave to belong. Jesus invited us to be part of His family... ­ those who are forgiven.

The third greatest need we all have is this: THE NEED TO BE ACCEPTED

I grew up in a Christian home having the loving acceptance of my mom and dad. With them I didn't have to prove anything. I knew I was accepted, so I was at rest. As a result, I have a lot of self-confidence and worth.

Some of us have a black cloud following us wherever we go. Someone important hurt or rejected us years ago, and we allow that memory to stay alive and well. We beat ourselves up for our failures, thinking no one else fails like I do. Some of the world's most successful people are also the most insecure. We can work ourselves silly trying to prove ourselves to people who really don't care about us.

But God said something absolutely amazing, "Whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." He also said, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins, and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness."

He is only waiting for us to call upon Him. He will accept us no matter how bad we've sinned. His grace is enough. His mercies are new every morning. God will never reject us when we humble our hearts before Him.

So why do we look to the world for its acceptance, when we already have acceptance from the King? We are accepted. Congratulations!

Now that we know that God has met our three most common needs to be loved, to belong and to be accepted, why not share this great news with someone who is still searching.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

The need to be needed

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Last week, we found that the first mutual need every human has is the need for love. We must both give it and receive it. God lovingly set the benchmark at the cross.

The second common need that we all share is this: the need to be needed.

All of our life is spent with a desire to belong. From trying out for 'the team' in Little League baseball, to applying for our first job, to helping our children 'grow up,' to leaving a legacy that has eternal value. Our need to be needed is intrinsic.

We all want our lives to have significance and purpose. For this Jesus died. He came to give us 'life, and life more abundantly' than the world alone can offer. He came to fulfill our destiny.
God so loved this fallen, broken world, that He NEEDED to do something.

And He did.

Now He needs us to be His voice in our families, and in our world. He needs us NOW. 'Today is the day of salvation.'

People don't need more dead religion. But they DO need hope. Our world is teetering like a drunken sailor. We weave back and forth, hoping against hope that the stock market will recover, that our kids will be loving, that our marriage will make it, that God will hold us.
Because God is love, He HAD TO HELP US. To ignore our plight would not be consistent with His character.

You and I can point people to the only one that can fulfill their need to be needed. God Himself invites us to belong to His family. He picked us for His team. How exciting is that!

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. Next week I'll conclude this three part series and share the third common need.

Help bring "living water" and the gospel to Haiti

Our hearts are heavy as we see the effects of this horrible and tragic earthquake in Haiti. A week before the earthquake, I had purchased my ticket to visit Haiti from January 23-27 to scope out the possibility of drilling fresh-water wells and holding large gospel crusades in unreached areas of this island.

Now, the need has obviously aggravated tremendously. As I go to Haiti in the coming weeks, will you pray that God will lead me to the right places and connect me with the right people, so we can be a blessing to this country both physically and spiritually?

As tragic as this is, we are praying that God will use this as a catalyst to turn many Haitians away from voodoo and other ungodliness and draw them to the mercy of Jesus!

I hope we can help drill many fresh-water wells and conduct a gospel crusade where thousands will turn from their sin and confess Jesus as their Lord.

Thank you for your prayers.

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org

P.S. If you would like to help bring "living water" and the gospel to the people of Haiti, please enter a donation of your choice. Donate>

The need to be loved

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Now that it's a new year, let's explore three common needs that every human being has no matter what race, culture, socio-economic class, education or religion. We all are in the same boat.

Here's the first of the three common needs: the need to be loved.

The majority of today's songs are about love: the desire to give it and the need to receive it. I grew up on the Diana Ross song, "What the world needs now, is love, sweet love." In the 70's it was the hippie’s mantra, 'make love, not war.' In Christian circles we have heard of the 'hole in our heart that only God can fill.' It's true that no husband or wife can completely fulfill us. No career or amount of money can satisfy us completely.

But God is not just something we add to our lives. He IS our lives. Without His love, nothing works right. We are hard-wired to depend on His love completely. Without it, our canoe is going upstream without a paddle. There is no hope.

But "God SO LOVED THE WORLD."

Love isn't just a cute song or catchy phrase. Love always costs big-time. Few are willing to make the commitment to a love that is 'unconditional.' That's why God's love is so attractive, it's perfect. LOVE DEMANDS SACRIFICE and God demonstrated it for us.

Now Jesus invites us to return His love by loving Him, and also loving what He loves--other people! It's easy to love people that are kind and easy going. But the test of our love comes when it costs us. Dying to our expectations is painful, but necessary. That's what makes it unconditional.

So let's thankfully receive His lavish love for us.

And let's freely offer His love to people that irritate us, ignore us, or irk us.
Jesus did... and still does!

Intentional for souls,

Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org