PURSUING NEW TESTAMENT CHRISTIANITY BY PURSUING
JESUS CHRIST AS THE GOSPEL.
RTM Magazine
January - March 2025
Memoirs of Grace
As we step into another season of ministry, we look back on the first quarter of 2025 with deep gratitude for the Lord’s undeniable work. From the Dominican Republic to Canada, Texas to Michigan, the power of God was evident, convicting hearts, reviving souls, and drawing many closer to Him. Here’s a reflection on the incredible ways the Lord moved during these months.
A New Year Begins in the Dominican Republic
The year began with a remarkable ministry opportunity in the Dominican Republic. On January 1st, I traveled alongside Elder Bryan Elsey to preach at a church conference retreat hosted by Pastor Kelvin Candelario. The theme of the conference was Prayer, and from the outset, the presence of the Lord was tangible. Reports from the attendees spoke of deep conviction, revival, and encouragement.
One unforgettable moment occurred during the Sunday morning service when a woman approached me afterward, confessing that her heart literally trembled as the Word was preached. It was a divine moment, a testimony to the Spirit’s work in piercing hearts. Two brothers, previously at odds, were reconciled, and many others testified to experiencing God’s mercy afresh.
Seeking Revival in Sheffield, AL
Later in January, I ministered at Providence Gospel Church in Sheffield, Alabama, under the leadership of Pastors Don Currin and Andy Sherrill. Over the course of Saturday and Sunday, I preached on the need for revival. It was a privilege to be among a congregation earnestly seeking a deeper experience with God. Even the most faithful churches are in constant need of renewal, and the hunger for revival in this body was evident. We continue to pray that the Lord will stir and sustain true revival in His people.
Evangelistic Outreach in Spring, TX
February brought another opportunity to minister, this time at Grace Baptist Church in Spring, Texas. Each visit to this congregation has been a source of encouragement, and this time was no different. The church hosted a special evangelistic service, which drew a record attendance. Many souls were troubled, visibly grappling with the weight of the gospel message. We earnestly continue in prayer, asking the Lord to bring these souls into the saving knowledge of Christ.
Days of Impact in Canada
March was a particularly full and fruitful month, beginning with ministry in Edmonton, Canada. Grace Fellowship Church, pastored by Shayne Poirier and Sam Kelm, hosted its first multi-church conference, including a pre-conference for pastors. Brother Mack Tomlinson and I were the only speakers at the conference. The reception among the pastors was deeply encouraging, with at least two testifying that they believed God spoke directly to them through the messages. Many others shared how the Lord had helped them through the Word.
During the main conference, I had the privilege of preaching three sermons on the person of Christ. The response was humbling as the attendees were drawn into deeper worship and reflection. Additionally, I ministered at the Filipino International Church of Edmonton, where the Lord moved mightily. As the sermon concluded, many in prayer wept before the Lord. The pastor, overcome with emotion, struggled to close the service, breaking down as he attempted to lead in prayer. Finally, after regaining composure, he led a heartfelt prayer of repentance and thanksgiving. Witnessing such an outpouring of the Spirit was a reminder that God's power transcends culture.
A Divine Breakthrough in Detroit, MI
The final stop of this quarter’s ministry was in Detroit, Michigan, where I preached at Grace Romanian Church under Senior Pastor Iulian Jecu. Friday evening, I addressed church leaders and workers on The Wisdom of God in His Design of the Church. Afterward, Pastor Jecu affirmed that the message was exactly what the church needed, though I had received no prior knowledge of their specific struggles.
Throughout Saturday and Sunday, I continued to minister, but it was the Sunday evening service where the Lord broke out in an unprecedented way. Unknown to me, the church had been experiencing deep division and was on the verge of another split. As the Word was preached, hearts were pierced, and tears filled many eyes. The weight of conviction was palpable. After I concluded, the pastor stood before the congregation and, with great humility, asked for forgiveness for anything he may have done to hurt others. One by one, members of the congregation followed, including the worship leader, until the front of the church was filled with people repenting and reconciling.
A fellow pastor leaned over and whispered, “This is historic. God is doing something miraculous.” It was a night that will not soon be forgotten. Long after the service ended, reconciliation continued to unfold, and testimonies poured in about how the Lord had used His Word to bring healing.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on these months, we can only stand in awe of God’s work. His presence was felt in every place, His Word was powerful, and His Spirit moved beyond what we could have imagined. As we continue into the next quarter, we do so with great expectation, praying for deeper revival, more salvations, and a continual outpouring of His grace.
Thank you for your prayers and support. Only Heaven will reveal what your ministry to us has produced. May the Lord continue to use all of us for His glory!
Heartily,
Michael Durham