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Blessing Sharing is a temporary opportunity. In this memo Dr. Roger Butz opens our eyes, our hearts and he
opens our door to be blessing sharing ourselves. Read it in his own words:
Dear family and friends,
It was exactly twenty years ago that I became acquainted with INCOR (International Christian Outreach & Relief), then a fledgling WA-incorporated, IRS-approved, tax-exempt charity. I met Mr. Chuck Strouss, the founder of INCOR, and Dr. Gavino Tica for lunch, as a potential contributor to INCOR. I became a contributor, then a visitor at Board meetings, then a Board member, and now secretary to the Board. The passion of Chuck Strouss and Gavino Tica for bringing relief to the poor and oppressed while faithfully proclaiming God’s plan for spiritual renewal in Christ resonated with me.
Last Saturday the INCOR Board met for a regular meeting, which occurs every 4-8 weeks. The Board is a congenial group of eight dedicated Christians who carry the same priorities as I sensed at that first contact, from various denominational traditions and occupational pursuits, six men and two women. Six of those have traveled outside the U.S. on various mission ventures related to INCOR interests, and some travel regularly. I’m one of the latter, spending a good portion of each year in Asia. Others also have gone to Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia to assess, monitor and encourage many locals who express our philosophy in ministry.
Last Saturday a couple of the Board members reminded me of my stated resolve to retire from so much travel (even as they approved my upcoming trip for Oct. 5- Nov. 4 during which I will conduct various visits on behalf of INCOR-supported projects in Thailand, Bangladesh, and Philippines). But I know that not one of them would ever voluntarily “retire” when there is such valuable work to do for the causes we cherish!
My association with INCOR serves several purposes. It provides for tax deductibility for any who would like to donate toward various projects. It provides me with accountability as they review and monitor funds disbursements, and require clear documentation via a “paper trail” of receipts and reports from supported agencies. It allows me to deduct the costs of my travel, which are solely paid for personally, since I officially travel on behalf of INCOR for work that is approved by the Board within the charter of the organization. And, INCOR Board members do pray for me, and God hears and answers those prayers.
Upon arrival at the meeting last Saturday I had prepared a memo to the Board asking approval for disbursement of $17,500 to various needs in Asia, in addition to $600 already tentatively approved via e-mail poll. To cover this $18,100 list I was aware of only $14,800 in the donation account. But I had prayed, and trusted God for His guidance in the situation. INCOR Treasurer came to the meeting with evidence that the donation account had grown to $18,400, or $300 more than needed. Also, I requested release of $3,200 toward blanket purchases for Burmese Karen refugees. My latest tally had shown only $2,140 in receipts. Treasurer reported that $1,050 had just arrived, making $3,190, or just $10 less than required. She said, “I think God is good at math!” Yes, and He seems to have specific interest in much that INCOR does, I’d say!
When Joyce and I began our volunteer work in 1992 I never dreamed we would be blessed to be able to disburse and monitor more than $100,000 annually for projects in Asia. But it is so, because of the generous investment of many family and friends, through INCOR. Thanks for your faithfulness in prayer as I leave for a difficult itinerary, and for your investment through INCOR and continued prayers for God’s providence.
In the enduring love of God, Roger Butz
Brother Roger’s stamina, courage and integrity heartily endorsed by Rits Tadema Th.B.
INCOR \, POB.531, KENT, WA 98035-0531
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