Inasmuch, Ron

There are those who talk, those that write, and those who act. Ron and Sue Bates have been among those who act for the street children, orphans, and homeless of Romania for over 15 years. Let’s face it, many of us who live in the United States are so spoiled by modern conveniences that we would rather “minister” via a website or blog than to get our hands dirty helping others or to pass on the love of God by hugging a homeless person.

For some, physical ministering is not an option and thus blog postings to encourage others are an act of service. But many physically able folks – in particular the younger generations – often have time on their hands (witness the rising crime rate among the young) and serving others would be not only practical but it would help them to grow in character.

Remember, one definition of “minister” is to attend to the wants and needs of others. It does not merely mean to preach. Sometimes it means listening to a stranger ramble or an elderly person recount the same stories over and over, or to work with those society has cast off and abandoned. Some folks don’t know how to be still and listen or to act; they only know how to “preach.”

There are many in Romania who have experienced the love of God through Ron and Sue Bates. Their Inasmuch Foundation is based on Matthew 25:40. Inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these.....my street kids and orphans....you have done it unto me.

These are quotes taken from today’s Inasmuch Newsletter.

“Ron was, as we are, imperfect, but he always wanted his love for his orphan girls, street kids, blind people and the gypsy believers to be perfect. His greatest ministry was with the gypsies. Ron’s gift was preaching the gospel and expounding God's word. He loved God's word and always appreciated the hungry, open heart of the gypsy Christians. He frequented the village of Goloshei and because of his great love for them and their common love for the Lord Jesus he wants to be buried in that village, so Thursday we will celebrate his home going.

“Ron was born in Ft. Worth, Texas. He was saved when he was 16 and spent the rest of his life preaching God's word and learning more about the kind of God we really have. Our wonderful workers and I, Lord willing, will continue the work as Ron would desire. Perhaps someone will come here to work alongside us. I would like this to be my legacy, also to serve with the Romanian people for my remaining years.

“Ron and I were married October 7th 1961. We have spent four years serving in Japan as missionaries and the past 17 years in Romania, privileged to have served the least of these, making our lives happy and fulfilled beyond imagination.” (Emphasis mine.)

Ron Bates’ (August 10^th, 1939 - July 31^st, 2007) ministry in Romania has ended, but Sue intends to remain and continue their work. If you can spare a moment, you might send her an email of encouragement from the website.

Jeff Taylor has posted a tribute to Ron Bates on his blog Romania and Missions.

www.mercyandpercy.com/