As I travel around this great state of Texas, I am continually amazed at the work our missionaries do in bringing the Good News of Christ crucified to the people of their communities. To that end, I would like to tell you about another amazing man of God who works in the Rio Grande Valley area of Texas.
The Rio Grande Valley, a true melting pot of different cultures, people and traditions, can test the mettle of any missionary. Language barriers, economic disparity and varying religious traditions create potential challenges to bringing Christ to those who have not heard or have heard incorrectly. The Rev. Ed Weber deals with these potential challenges on a daily basis, yet he smiles and considers it all necessary to fulfill the calling he has received: “… Go therefore and make disciples of all nations …” Matt. 28:19.
Weber leads the congregation at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Mercedes, as well as works with Mision Luterana Emanuel, Mercedes. In addition to this and in conjunction with Fishers of Men Lutheran Church, Port Isabel, Weber works with RioMac, a mission agency responding to the need for missionaries to work the harvest field in the Rio Grande Valley.
Weber mentioned to me that even though the church has experienced some bad circumstances, such as break-ins and theft, he continues to enjoy doing God’s work among the community in Mercedes. He uses a number of local events, such as the Border Stock Show, to bring the Good News to those who have not heard. The congregation sponsors a Bible trivia “spin the wheel” booth at the stock show, hosts a mariachi group from Mercedes High School, and participates in the traditional “Posada,” a Mexican depiction of the census pilgrimage to Bethlehem by Mary and Joseph.
During the winter months, many people come to the Rio Grande Valley to escape the cold weather in northern states. These folks, known as “Winter Texans,” greatly increase the population of the Rio Grande Valley and present many opportunities for mission outreach.
Texas Partners in Mission is blessed to assist missionaries like Rev. Ed Weber working the mission field and I ask you, the reader, to keep not only him in yours prayers, but all the missionaries and mission agencies engaged in “reaching the lost, discipling the saved, and caring for God’s people, both locally and globally.”
By: Lanny Moore
Texas Partners in Mission