Hey all here are some more pictures.  The first is Robert Burk's first official ID.  Pretty wild isn't it?  The second picture is a shot of the primary school children.  I'm sorry to say but the rural education of Kenya is soooooooo substandard, but each day getting better with help.  The third is the plot of land purchased by the church led by Peter Rono and his wife.  In our time there, Peter has helped with every construction project  in Lemoru, Lolikenya, and Segero, seeing 3 churches, 1 orphanage, and 1 School built in his community.  In the process he has sacrificially given of he and his family while just praying for a building.  Two days before my arrival, the church had been evicted from the storefront where they had been meeting for the last 2 years.  I was convicted,  met with the leadership, created a floor plan and an estimate.  It is my vision to take a team back and raise $14,000.00 for materials and partner with our brothers and sisters to provide an Oykodomey (Greek for dwelling place in Ephesians 4) If you want to jump in go to the website at www.tseainc.com and donate on line.  If you want to go hit the contact tab and send me an e-mail.  What a chance to change the world one life at a time.  Well, there is so much more I want to tell you about. but time is short.  I will try to add more soon.  Right now I am in the middle of a D-Now with FBC Everman, FBC Kennedale, and Bisby Baptist.  Great students and leaders, 3 saved this evening!  Wow, life change is a blast!  Love you all, live fast, lots to do little time! 

David

Christmas in Lemoru

Hey all, I'm back in Nairobi after an amazing three days in Lemoru.  Here are a couple of pictures of Robert Burk and Linos opening some gifts from Kayla thanks to the Rally House in Arlington TX.  For some reason they loved the Rangers and Baylor.  Linos sported a Baylor T-Shirt over a Ranger T-Shirt, with an OU hoodie, and an A&M cap!  He was quite the little team guy!  All went amazingly well.  Robert is 19 years old in reality(March 3 he turns 20) and is now a Junior in High School.  Thanks to our friend Josiah Kirawa from Right Electric, he was able to get an identity card, purchase a couple of plots of land, and invest in his future.  With the help of the deputy principle and the school board, we were able to get some misunderstandings taken care of and Robert is on a track to graduate in 2013.  PTL.  I preached 8 times, had 4 teas, ate six meals, and ministered at a funeral in 2 short days of ministry.  We saw souls saved, lives changed,  and families encouraged through various meetings.  It was great to see friends and the Lord has laid on my heart the need to return during this year to help some of the struggling but useful ministries in the area.  Well I am trying to get a couple of pics uploaded with this African internet.  If they don't make it I will add them when I get to the USA.  There are more stories and pictures to come.  Got to hurry to bed so I can hurry to get up!  Love you all.  Remember, its all over too fast!  Make this one count! 

David

In Nairobi

Hey all, I am headed to Eldoret and Siwa as we speak.  I spent the night here in Nairobi and got some good rest.  It is crazy here in this country.  The politics are so corrupt and the process is full of hindrances to their success.  Two active politicians along with two other cabinet members are under indictment by the ICC at the Hague, but are still in office and one is running for President.  First of all I don't understand a sovereign nation deferring their autonomy to an international body.  Why would you allow that to happen?  Can you imagine our President or Speaker of the house or Senate majority leader being under indictment by an international body while serving our country?  I would certainly hope we could take care of our own judicial matters and if a serving politician did something illegal, we would trust our own process to correct the situation.  On top of all of that, I sit in a nice Hotel with charity based CEO's and Local politicians discussing international policy for eradicating hunger, malaria, and Aids while ordering their third bottle of $100.00 wine.  Ha!  Oh well, its time for me to go to the Bush.!  The next time I write I will have pictures of Robert and the students of the World Hope home in Lemoru.  I'm off to fly 540 air.  A local based airline.  Wish me good fortune! :)  Love you all, living faster. 

David.

Northridge San Angelo today Kenya tomorrow

Hey all, this is my first blog of the New Year.  The theme, "All In!" has been resonating in me so far.  As I travel, study, and interact with people around the world, I since a propensity to waver, side step, be cautious, and allow room for other options prevailing.  In the past weeks I have listened to two strong leaders feud over the reality of Hell and its purpose.  I have visited with people who really think that whatever they are believing at the moment takes precedence over what God says.  Don't get me wrong, I see my self as chief of sinners and the last person who has the right to judge others life choices.  However, I am also the first to admit my short comings as well as acknowledge that I don't have to understand, think its fair,  or even believe all that God says's for Him to be truth and me to be wrong.  I guess it is just really simple to me.  Jesus said to a man who was smarter, more committed, and had better life values than I do, if he wasn't born again, then he would never see the Kingdom of God.  Ok!  What else is there to argue about or write about?  It is what it is.  Anyway, your either in or out.  I'm all in!  

This week I am in the Northridge Baptist church of San Angelo TX .  Pastor Emmett Corker and the rest are great friends and wonderfully gracious people.  This week my wife Debbie and I served with Sherman and Tammy Aten.  It has been a refreshing time of revival and renewal.  

Tomorrow at this time, I will be heading to Nairobi to see our Kenyan son Robert Burk.  Robert is working hard to graduate from High School and has begun a business in his home community of Siwa.  It is a great time to be alive.  A person can be in Texas one day and serving in Kenya the next!  Wow, are you taking advantage of our times?  This spring I am scheduled to be in Kenya, Chile, Mexico, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, UAE, and China, this Spring. If the Lord wills, i am living out the best salvation I know.  In addition, Garrett is starting his Sr. Year of High School, Kayla is starting a business, Ashley and Corbin are educating the next generation and Debbie and I will be married 28 years this fall.  Wow, it is only by the Grace of my Father that any of this is possible for a guy like me.  I hope you have a Vision for your own Journey, and that you are discovering the fulfillment of that Vision through your walk with a loving and gracious Savior.  Ok, a little preachy for the blog but hey, I"M ALL IN!  Live fast as it is over soon, but most importantly, even if fast is not an option any more, make sure your living!  Love you all, and once again, I am going to try to do this more consistently.  Love you all. 

David

At FBC Andrews

Hey Guy's, I am in Andrews TX this week. It is an exciting time for the Church. They have a new pastor and family. M Brant O'Connor, his wife Dea, and their 5 beautiful children have moved from Josephine TX and have made a perfect match with the dynamic congregation. Andrews is growing like crazy, the school is full of christian teachers, coaches, administrators and school board. The church also is looking at an expansion project to expand the influence and footprint of the church in the community. Today I was able to join some of the athletes at the High school and remind them of the need to sweep the hurdles out of their life, recover daily and run focused. They were a great body of young men. This week I have had the privilege to work with Justin Graves, his wife Michelle, and their 5 year old daughter Gabi. They so remind me of when my little ones traveled with my wife and I. They have done a great job!
In other news, my aunt Joyce in Lubbock, TX passed away this morning and I will be at her funeral Friday. The children are strong and sensitive to the Lord. Can a Dad ask for anything more? Hey, I better run. Pizza Night! :) See ya soon!

china bound

hey all Don Mitchell and I are on the way to China last time could not blog, but hey maybe this time! i'll let u know either way. New phone!, if u have not received a call or text in a while text me so i can get your cell! love u all!

Jarvis returns with a friend.

Hey all, Jarvis was back tonight with a friend. He is so excited and growing by leaps and bounds! Go Jarvis!

Life Change in Longview

Let me introduce you to Jarvis. Jarvis is a middle aged African American man who stays at the mission in Longview, TX. He has recently begun to work with the bi-vocational pastor of the Solid Rock Bible Fellowship. Pastor Jace has not only been able to help Jarvis see that his future is bright and the disadvantages that has plagued his past can be overcome, but he has also got an amazing future if he places his trust in Christ. Jace repeatedly brought Jarvis to an encounter with Jesus as he continually exhibited the joy of a life walked in Christ. Well, on Sunday morning, Jarvis stood to his feet, took a deep breath of courage and walked to the front of the room to share with Pastor Jace Roberts and the rest of the congregation about his new relationship with God through Jesus and his desire to walk in his new life openly and public ally. Wow, what a joy it has been to watch Jarvis smile uncontrollably, sing with an amazing zeal, and grow at a pace that is mind boggling! I will try to include a picture before the week is over.

I hope you will continue to lift up and follow this exciting congregation as they open doors for all people and continue to grow in their relationship and purpose in Christ. Here is a link to their ministry http://www.solidrocklongview.org/

I will be in Nome, TX next week if you wish to keep up.

In family news, Ashley and Corbin have purchased their first home. Corbin was hired by TCC to teach freshman Literature as Ashley continues to serve at Fellowship School in Kenedale teaching high school English. Kayla has received her license of cosmetology, is working to make extra change at Rallyhouse, and has signed a lease on her first boutique in a salon. Garrett is doing well in his senior year, playing varsity baseball, and has begun touring Universities for his next step. Debbie and I had the privilege to travel with Jimmy and Annelle Gault up into the new England area last month. It was a great time of work, fun, touring, and eating too much great seafood! Ask Jimmy about his favorite Lobster. Hey, Mexico and China this month. Life is short, I'm getting slower, lives are slipping off into eternity, and the world is getting smaller every day! We have to keep going, even when life and humanity try to shackle us. For all of our friends in west Texas, I will be in San Angelo at the CVBA annual meeting on Nov. 1 Come see me! Love you all, especially my friends in places I have not been lately. I am missing you! Hopefully I will see you soon.
David

Beautiful Willowmore Methodist Church. Built in the 1890"s

This is a great church led by a bi-vocational pastor for more than 15 years. They just keep loving God and loving people in Willowmore! A blessing to walk with them for a bit!

Beautiful day in Josie!

Hey, it is a beautiful spring day in JoBurg. Garrett is off with friends playing paintball and I am about to see friends from longtime partner Mayfair Baptist in Crosby. Tomorrow I will get to go to church at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Mulbarton (JoBurg) and in the evening address friends at the Mayfair Baptist. Unfortunately I have not had a chance to see friends from Bella Bella, Utienage, or Matatella, but Garrett and I did get to make new friends in Willowmore at the Methodist church. Pastor Steve Gruer invited Garret and I to come, and spend some days together at a game farm. I will not include pictures as some don't appreciate them as much as G and I do, but let me just say it was a bountiful week. Thanks to Mike and Joanne at Finchley Farm for helping Garrett and I to create life long memories. Well, its time for a meeting so I have to move. Living fast in the southern part of Africa, but ready to be home to see family and friends! Hey, remember, you only get one shot at this thing called living! Do it today, tomorrow may not come! :) Love you all.
David

PS Go Springboks!

Team is on the way home!

It was a happy and sad day for me as I said goodbye to the team here and South Africa. It was Happy because it was an amazing team, and amazing time with our brothers and sisters in South Africa and it was an amazing move of God. All of us will be forever changed and forever closer as friends. I will try to put some pics on as they speak so much louder than I! I miss them already, and am looking forward to some amazing Father Son time with Garrett! Living fast and ready to sleep! Love you all!
David

Day 2 in the Books.

Well, the pic will not upload! Not sure why but day two was great! We were in three schools, two baby orphanages, door to door evangelism in a township! So excited to see things like Aaron Warren lead a person to Christ with no one but the Lord helping him, Garrett Burk, sharing his testimony and a witness with a woman ready to trust the Lord. I watched my two daughters hold baby's who were starving for affection. Philip has been a real Spiritual leader for the team, pointing out a word in just the right place. School assemblies where the team was used in mighty way's. It has really been a trip where each person has fit a need. They ask us to minister to the teachers at the private school and guess what? Dr. Toby Irwin was previously a private school administrator and teacher. Wow! What a deal! I will keep trying to up load the pics, but until then you will just have to read! Stay in touch and know if your person wasn't mentioned, God used them mightily, its just that I have to go. Brant preached at the school, Trace and Caleb are big hits with the children, Jimmy had his own class, Garrett T is becoming a real witness, and Kevin is just bold and speaking a word to everyone! Tyler has taken over and has announced he will be the President of TSEA when I kick the bucket! He is excited about the prison ministry tomorrow! Time has been great! Corbin, Judd, Tyler and Toby all led small groups tonight. Josh is still leading worship while being a witness and the host church is treating us like VIP guest! Hey, I really do have to go! Love you all Live fast, we only have so many opportunities! Philippians 2:12-13! Love to all!

Great begining in South Africa

Hey all, it was an amazing first day in south Africa. The team was incredible, the Lord spoke in life changing ways, and our host have been amazing. It is such a blast to watch people I have know for years being used in extraordinary ways. I really have been a bi-stander for the most part. The team is gelling well together and different gifts for different situations have been obvious. To all of the parents and spouses, the whole team is great and getting along well, all healthy and excited. It has been amazing. I wish everyone could have seen Garrett Taylor share his testimony to 300 high school students, or Tyler Springer preach the gospel to an open air crowd after visiting with a Muslim man about his faith. Caleb O'Connor and Trace Thompson have been amazing with the children. Ashley and Kayla are starting adoption proceedings for all of the orphans at the TLC home, and Josh has been a hit with the guitar. Philip and Garrett B are our praise, worship, and dance team, while Jimmy keeps everyone informed on the facts and trivia of South Africa. Toby is our wisdom, Brant and Judd are the leaders of the team, Aaron has become quite the soul winner in the one on one and I am the driver! Corbin has become or photographer and I will add better pics than these when we get everything lined up. Kevin is an amazing servant who is sharing his story, preaching, and cleaning up every chance he get's. Wow, what a team! Now our host! Nic and Brandon have worked themselves to death serving us and setting things up. Tegs and Nadine have worked overtime being exceptional host. What a trip. Tomorrow schools, orphanages and the prison. The Kingdom is growing and the body is maturing! What a day int he Lord. Well, I have to go for now, internet is at a premium, but keep us close and stay in touch! Love you all, live fast, and enjoy! We only get one shot!
David

Team all in Atlanta and in great spirits!!!!!!

Hey all, the team is in Atlanta airport getting ready for the long 16.5 hour flight to JoBurg. We are all settled into the Delta Skyclub of terminal E. It is exciting to hear each one share their story, expectations, and life change experiences. We can not wait to get to South Africa and begin the journey. I will take a group picture when we arrive at the Airport and let you all see your loved one in Josie. :) Well, I have to go suffer for a bit! Remember! Live fast, you only get one chance at this! :) Love ya all!

Youth Camp starts today and South Africa Friday

Well, after a great weekend of family and fellowship, it was nice to say goodbye to the students from Fielder and to begin to do the final touches of preparation for the team going to South Africa. The team this year is an amazing group including all three of my children and my son-in-law. Here are the names so you can be praying for the Lord to use them in really great ways.

William James	Brymer
Charles Garrett	Burk
David	Burk
Kayla Marie	Burk
Toby	Irwin
Ashley Dawn	Lockmiller
Brett Corbin	Lockmiller
Joshua David	Miller
Philip Scott	Neisess
Caleb Hugh	O'Connor
Michael Brant	O'Connor
Judd Lee	Porter
Tyler Bradley	Springer
John Garrett	Taylor
Trace Aaron	Thompson
Aaron	Warren
Kevin Ferguson	Weaver

We will join and partner in the mission of Harvest Christian Fellowship, led by our friends Cecil and Jeannette Peasley, in the southern portion of Johannesburg. While in the Josie area we will serve in Harvest Church, squatter camps, prisons, schools, and open air meetings in a park. Please commit to pray with us for God to be able to use the team and the Church to do His thing. Well I'm still trying to live fast and Debbie is excited to have us all on mission for a week with a quiet house! Ha ha! Thanks for being friends and keeping up. Until next time, remember, we only get one shot at this thing called life! :)
David

www.tseainc.com

Camps almost over South Africa almost here.

Well, the last of four student camps is coming to an end this week. I am at Alto Frio with the students from the San Antonio area for master camp. It has been over 100 degrees each day and as dry as the locals have ever seen it. However, there have already been over 60+ decisions in just two nights. Praise the Lord.
On the 29th there will be 17 heading to South Africa for a mission trip partnering with the Harvest Fellowship in Johannesburg. Of the team, 13 are below the age of 25. Wow, what a great opportunity. The team will minister in schools, prisons, open air meetings, and churches while serving in South Africa. I believe it will be an amazing trip and I can not wait to see what God has in store. I promise to put up pictures and reports as we journey into His plan.
I also want to introduce the two newest team members of the TSEA team. Tyler Springer is now serving in a volunteer position as an intern with TSEA and Ashley Lockmiller is serving as our communication director. Both are volunteering their time while gaining valuable global experience in the Kingdom. Tyler is a God called preacher who has a passion for ministry in difficult places. It is our prayer that he will be a regular on trips to Pakistan, China, Cambodia and other parts of the middle east as we move forward with God's plan. Ashley is no stranger to TSEA, as she was there when it started. She is a high school English teacher who holds a Master degree in Media Communication and is going to help us do better at staying in touch than I have done in the past. Attached are their pictures and a request for your prayers as the two of them serve their Lord through TSEA. Well, I will try to stay in touch better. Hope your following our Facebook and Twitter pages! :)

In Logansport Louisiana

Hey all, Rody and I are safe at home in the good ole USA. I must admit, I miss our friends in Pakistan. However, it is great to breath the same air as my family. Garrett won another baseball game tonight, (7-2) Kayla and Maw Maw froze being faithful fans. Ashley and Corbin are working hard and finishing their master level work. Debbie is in Austin caring for her Dad while her Mother is working. I am in Logansport LA for an outside area wide event. All is going well and I am catching up on a little sleep! Can you believe it? I am staying in Joaquin, TX and they have no cell signal! Ha Ha! It is a great place but is amazing that there is perfect signal, all be it expensive, in Pakistan but no signal in Texas? ATT is playing us all! This is the consequence of big companies through mergers and acquisitions creating monopolies reducing competition. Oh well, God bless America.
Hey, Rody and i can not thank you all enough for all of the prayer and support you gave during our time in Pakistan. it is our hope to expand the opportunities and enlarge the scope by next year. Our friends have already invited us back and we can't wait to see the world changed.
As soon as I hit the ground G and I went Turkey Hunting (hunting not killing) and then I took off for Logansport. Here is a pic of my favorite Turkey hunter and a pic of the beautiful setting in Logansport LA. Love you guy's, living fast!
David

It's not Religion

Last Night in Pakistan.

Hey Partners, we just finished the last night in Patoki Pakistan. It is almost 3:30 am, but I had to write to all of you worried I was going to be blown up. Mission accomplished. (Humm last time I heard that it was far from over! I have 21 hours of flying and 14 hours of waiting starting tomorrow morning at 6:15 am! ha ha!) What an amazing day today was. We started the day going to the St. Thomas School and learning to play cricket! We were doing well for a couple of US guy's until Rody hit the ball over the wall and into the sewer and we decided "GAME OVER!" Then we went to find shirts for the big game, home for a Pizza Party with friends for the first half of the world cup. [it's the Cricket World Cup played one every four years for my USA friends] Later we drove the 2 hour trip to Patoki and visited 2 new churches! Yup, that's right. Last year only one new congregation, this year two! Each running over 100 new converts. One of the highlights of the trip was meeting Yusef at the new church. Yusef is a friend I met last year who had many spiritual problems and issues. In fact on our first meeting he was completely out of control, bound by fear, and being self destructive. Tonight, he is a beautiful, handsome, intelligent, young man with a shy but courageous countenance, and a confident testimony of a new life in Christ. Now those of you that know me, know I'm not much on the whole possession/exorcist scene. In fact I avoid even talking about it as often as possible. However, Yusef, was in trouble. I'm no priest or anything, but when I was asked to help, I simply held Yusef tight, prayed for him, and trusted that God loved him even more than I could have. At the end, Yusef simply calmed and went to sleep. I left and thought I would probably never see him again. Then tonight, I was addressing the congregation when he walked in and immediately I recognized his eyes, but that was the only thing that was even vaguely the same! Yusef is my friend. We are both guy's that needed a lot of help from the Lord to be free. We will spend eternity together because of the love God has for us. What a real gift to see Yusef again!

We then left the church and headed for the soccer grounds where the event was scheduled to be. Everywhere we drove there were crowds of people sitting around TV Screens watching Pakistan play India for the semi-final match. I was concerned the crowd attendance would be low. Finally we arrived at the soccer grounds and noticed they had extended the seating area. As we patiently endured two hours of song, introduction, long prayers, and more songs, the crowd just kept coming. By the time Rody got up to share a little warm up testimony, the place was packed. There were conservatively between 11 and 14 thousand people there on the largest night we have ever had. No gifts, no gimmicks, just people who had received the night before bringing others with them. It was incredible! When the evening was over, there were more people who received a new eternal life than we could count. For those keeping score, it was easily over half the crowd professing Christ as their only Savior for the first time! Wow, how humbling is that? Rody and I had the privilege of watching life change right before our eyes.
Well, the mission is over, now it is time to pack the dirty clothes, drag ourselves to the airport, fly and wait, and get home by Friday evening. Saturday, I'm off to Louisiana for another great meeting in Logansport so no rest just keep moving! Hey, how many of these lives do we get? Oh yea! Just one! Gotta live fast! Thanks for keeping up and coming along! It has been an amazing journey! Here is a Pic of Yusef in the new church, a shot of the crowd, and a shot with Azeem, the great interpreter, and I.

Response with Pastor saved

1st Night in Patoki a huge sucess. Debbie turns 50!

Hey guy's, sorry for the delay in catching you up. I got in last night and just could not keep my eyes open. Yesterday we had an amazing time of Leadership training with about 25 Pastors and 75 other leaders. We spent most of the time training on a discipleship strategy that takes each new believer through a four stage process that ends with them taking new believers through the process. The response was amazing and the prep work our contacts did was perfect. Tonight we started the first night in Patoki. It appears tomorrow may only be a few of us, as Pakistan and India square off for the semifinals of the World Cup Cricket match. However, tonight's crowd was the largest we have ever had at Patoki. With estimated more than 8000 people, many having to stand outside the curtain, the atmosphere was electric. I led off with a simple testimony and warm up, then Rody Chesser stood and delivered a home run on being born-again. The Spirit was thick in the place as countless people [only heaven will be able to count] stood to their feet and professed Christ as their savior, entering a new spiritual life with Him. I remember when my son hit his first high school home run, or shot his first deer, how it felt. It was more fun than doing it myself. Well, I have to admit I felt a little that way as Rody spoke truth then led thousands of Pakistani citizens to Christ. It was an amazing encounter. Well tomorrow we are scheduled to play our first Cricket match in the morning, pick up some needed props for tomorrow night, watch the World cup, then go to Patoki for the last night of Crusade. Keep us in your prayers, and pray the people God wants to save will be stirred and even want to miss the game of the century for Pakistan and come meet the Lord. I will post a short video of Rody leading the public confession after the invitation. Enjoy! Hey, guess what? My wife is living faster than I am! Yup, Debbie turned 50 today as her sorry husband missed yet another family event! Give her a shout out on facebook or something! Love ya all,
Living fast, making it count! We only get one you know! :)
David

Second night inYoungson Abad

Hey all, just a really quick note to bring you up to date on what is happening here. It is 1:30 am and we have a leadership conference in the morning at 7:30 and I am exhausted. However, I had to let you know about today. We started the day in local congregations followed by lunch. Then we left for the 2 hour journey to the campaign. Tonight was amazing. All of those who were hesitant last night returned tonight and it was estimated that more than twice the crowd of last night appeared. (over 10,000) There was standing room only and people standing outside the tent. When the response time was given there were literally thousands of people standing to declare their trust in Christ as leader of their life. I have some more video I will include later, but let me give you a short glimpse with a few pictures tonight and I will add video later. For all following the "where is David's Bag" story, I received my bag from PIA around 2 this afternoon. It was nice to have clean clothes for the meeting tonight...Thanks for all who have kept up and prayed. I love you all and will check in after some sleep! Live fast, you never know when you won't have your bag! Ha Ha!

David

David Burk in Youngson Abad

First night in Lahore in the books!

COMPEL THEM TO COME! Ha Ha!

Well guy's after a draining day, frustrating news reports, discouraging sentiments by local pastors, no bag or clothes from the airline, and even stops and investigations by city police, Rody Chesser and I finally made the 2 hour drive to Youngson abad. Upon our arrival at about 8:30 pm there was a disappointing crowd of around 900-1000 people present. It looked discouraging because there were over 5000 chairs set up and ample room for another 5000 on the ground. However, after resolving in my heart that this was ok, even if this is all we have to speak to and the only opportunity to speak, it would all be worth it, people began to appear. Before Rody shared his testimony followed by me sharing from the Bible, it was over there were between 5 and 6000 people there. By the end of the preaching, at least a third of those in attendance (mostly young men) were standing to their feet, raising there hand and trusting Christ and Christ alone to be their Lord and Savior. Wow, this is the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Amazing God. Well I am attaching my favorite photo of the night with the guards and a short video clip that shows the end of the message. I'm a little tired, dirty, and smelly and it is 2:30 am so I am going to take a shower and go to bed! Hey get a load of my Shalmar Kameez they picked up for me to wear. Still no deodorant, but no one seemed to notice but Rody and I! ha ha ! Hey, live fast, its over pretty quick! :) OOOPS this video did not make the filter. Sorry.

Rody and David settled in Lahore

Hey all, Rody and I have both made it to Lahore. Unfortunately, my bag is still missing in action. However, wearing the same clothes three days in a row seems not to bother anyone but me! Ha Ha! I want to say that all is going really well. there are some unexpected hurdles place in the path that are requiring some meticulous steps to navigate. Apparently, Terry Jones did burn a Quran on the 22nd, something our press failed to mention but has covered the newspapers here in Lahore. http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/304937 It was suggested by some of the local leaders that the meeting (beginning tonight) in Youngson abab should be cancled. However, after prayer consultation with our contacts and much preparation, we will go forward. Life is short, our days are numbered, we only get one chance, live fast! You know the drill! So here we go. I hope idiots like Terry Jones will someday understand the cost of their human and flesh driven acts, but hey who am I to say anything. Most of my life has been flesh driven! I guess but for His grace, there I go! Anyway, the people of Lahore are beautiful, wonderful, God created, beings of this earth, and I am so glad to get to love them. I will hopefully have pictures after tonight and will share them with the world. Live fast, time is short! Love you all, (especially those 3 Burk kids, oops 2 Burks and one Lockmiller! ) hee hee!
David

I'm in Dubai, Rody in Dallas

Let the fun begin! I had an uneventful(16.5 hours) trip to Dubai and am now waiting for 16 hours in the airport. Rody took the same amount of time to fly AA from San Angelo to Dallas. Yup! He is stuck @ DFW waiting for a re-route to Lahore. Other than slight inconvenience of not being together in Dubai, we are both well and looking forward to getting on the ground together in Lahore. The UAE is an amazing place where sand from the ocean floor is often excavated to create islands where multi-storied, 5 star Hotels are built. It causes me to think of the parable of building on the sand every time I am here.

As for me I am fine, the family is fine, and the contacts in Lahore are prepared and excited. On a sad note, longtime board member and friend of TSEA, Skeeter Tucker passed away early Wednesday morning. Skeeter was one of the finest personal soul winners I ever met. He loved to share his story of redemption with everyone he met. The night he died, he and his precious wife Debra had visited a friend with cancer in the nursing home. He wanted nothing more than for all he knew to have the same hope and assurance as he. Skeeter was the sole proprietor of Skeetebuilt motors in San Angelo. He often used his business as a place to launch into what was most important in life. Skeeter often sacrificed income for he and his family by helping someone in need and not charging them, but rather ministering to them. Skeeter was a remarkable man, amazing witness, and friend. He will be missed. His services will be Friday afternoon at 4:00pm at Johnson Funeral home in San Angelo TX.

Well I will let you know when I get to Pakistan. Thanks for all of the prayers and all of your support! Check out the Total Surrender Facebook page and hit the like box! :) Living fast and loving people in Dubai.
David

David Burk at Siloam

David finishes Ken Blanchard Executive MBA

Hey Hey! For the past 13 months I ave been involved in a fast track, on-line, residency Executive Leadership Master of Business Administration degree program out of Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ It has truly been a collaborative effort from my family, friends, colleagues, TSEA Board, churches I worked with, and a Cohort of 17 amazing people. I could only wish all that I have learned and been exposed too would have stuck. My mind is spinning with thoughts of application and illustrations that really changed my thinking from the inside out. For those of you who do not really know me, this was a tremendously challenging attempt for me. I am far from a scholar, and formal education has not been the easiest thing for me to engage in. However, the amount of self awareness obtained in the program, collaboration from my Cohort, and the overflow of grace from God allowed me to complete my work maintaining a 3.98 grade point average. That is all A's with one 93 A-. That is truly a miracle and example of God's sustaining grace.

The greatest part of the program was the exposure to business giants like Ken and Margie Blanchard, Colleen Barrett, Vicki Halsey, Ken and Jackie Freiberg and others. Can you imagine sitting down at a table and visiting with the President emeritus, creator of the Southwest culture, and now author Colleen Barrett and laughing over desert? Wow, what an amazing time it has been.
Well, I guess i have no excuse for not keeping the blog up to date. I promise to do better in the future. For today and this week, just take a little time to celebrate with me, thank Him for all that is, and rejoice because there are such quality people in your life! You are so important to me!

COMING:!
March 23rd, Rody Chesser and I are off to Lahore Pakistan. Can not wait, and I know you will be going with us through the blog! Until then, think of all the good in your life today and give yourself a big hug! I love you all!
David Burk

Just checking in.

Well I was home for a bit and then gone, then home, then gone! My life! I got to see all of the kiddos while I was home. Corbin and Ashley celebrated their first anniversary this weekend. Wow, has it already been a year? Incredible. I saw Garrett play two games last night, and he is a better baseball player than I ever thought of being. He hits balls I would have just moved out of the way of. Kayla gave her first haircut this last week! [WOW Chelsea You are a real friend!] and it looked great!!!!!! I was so amazed and proud, but know she will never cut mine! Ha Ha! It is so fulfilling to see Debbie and my children growing up and living life. Kayla sang this week for a china mission meeting, helps with the student praise team and is always loving people who need it! Garrett had a great report card, is working on his PSAT and made a better geometry grade than I ever made in my life! I never even took chemistry and he aced that! Ashley is teaching High School English and speech![ that is so ironic, I have a child who not only speaks good English but can teach it! God is good! ] Someone ask me last week what Debbie does these days! Well, she is the booster club mom, goes to all games, helps with te hair products, taxis everyone's cars to and from the shop, keeps the house, fixes the broken things, paints the walls, does the wash, works at the church in the bed babies, host our small group, takes me to and from the airport, and that's just a few of her daily responsibilities. She told me she was going to get a job so she could rest! I leave next Thursday for China to be with 30 house church pastors and I can hardly wait. The Lord has given me a study on spiritual leadership and the opportunity to be with His choicest servants. Lonnie Diggs is preparing the trip, and Mom has produced all of the material and had it printed with a little help from Aaron Stapleton! It is really going to be a great opportunity the Lord willing. Well, the road is up and down, I get in the way too often, it is only His grace that allows this mess-up to keep going, He is aware of where I am and He is making me something I could not be and taking me places I could not go! I guess there is nothing to do but thank Him!!!!! I met some new people today, from Vietnam, Vegas, India, Chicago, and Spain. All of that just today! Still working on school, 3 weeks in these two classes then just 3 more classes! It has really been a valuable thing for me!

On a sad note, I will be leading the final service for Ruby Murphy in San Augustine, TX Saturday the 16th. ruby was one of our first and most passionate team members for TSEA Inc. Ruby passed away in her home in Willow AK at the age of 87. The pic was when she visited our home a few months ago in Arlington. Ruby will be missed here, but I guarantee she is making all of Heaven smile! :)

Keep me in your thoughts and prayers, live fast knowing it's over too soon, and hey take time to watch the sun set! Love you all! David

Wrap up in Columbia

Hey team, just got home last night from Columbia. It was an exciting time for all of us. We happened to be in Quibdo during carnival for a patron saint in that city. As a result there were thousands of people within hearing distance of the gospel, and only heaven knows the life change that took place. Here is a shot of me speaking to the crowd on Tuesday evening. I start an event with Westridge Baptist Church in Grand Prairie tonight. I am excited about the opportunity. On the 21st I head to XIAN China and have the incredible opportunity to lead 30+ house church pastors in Spiritual Leadership class. I am so excited about the opportunity in China. I will do my best to stay engaged in the blog for the next three weeks and not keep you hanging. Love you all and can not wait to meet up the next time! Live fast, the next phase is coming soon! :)
David

Night three in Quibdo a wet success

Well, the final night of the crusade turned out to be quite the event. Rain began just ans Brant finished his testimony. As I was speaking the people were running for cover. I gave a brief gospel message and some came to Christ but the visible results were minimal as people had run to take shelter. As the rain continued, a group of young believers from the Medellin Christ for the Nations school began to rap. The place filled again with thousands of people who absolutely loved and responded to the music and praise. Just as they finished a song the rain stopped. I shared a brief witness and offered another opportunity for people to come to know Christ personally. many responded just as the rain began again. When we left, the streets were filled with many thousands of people and the Lord's witness was planted. Who knows who all we will see in Glory. There was one story I wanted to relate to you. Today Paul got to lead two young (20 somethings) men to Christ on the street. This evening they came among the thousands and searched him out. They were so full of joy and excitement. They were all smiles and hugs and soaking up everything they heard. It was exciting to see the life change. Well, this is why we go. I miss you all and hope to see you soon. Live fast, your life is important to someone else. Love you all.
David

Second night in Quibdo an amazing night

Hey team, the second night of Crusade was incredible. The Lord used the last night of Carnival to attract in excess of 20,000 people to the area. It is estimated that between 4,000 and 5,000 people were seated and standing in the area of the event. Billy Frosch gave his testimony of how the Lord delivered him from a young alcoholic and drug addict who lost his father as a teen to murder. Paul Testa helped with the music and even led some worship this evening. Brant O'Connor preached in a local church this morning and built relationship this evening. When it came time for the message, I spoke to a very loud and moving crowd about the choice of the Rich Young Ruler. In spite of the festive atmosphere, hundreds responded and gave their lives to Christ. Gloria ah Dios! Keep us in your prayers tomorrow. Brant and I will lead a training for leaders tomorrow that will be very important. Billy and Paul will be doing door to door during the day and then Brant and I will speak tomorrow evening. All is gong well. I miss my family the most and all of you who are friends, but when you see what we saw tonight, it makes it bearable. Well, I better go, lot's to do before in the morning. Love you all, te quiero, y Dios te bendiga! God bless you. Live fast, it could be over tomorrow! :)

First Night in Columbia

Hey Team, we had a good trip to Columbia. We are in Medellin with our contacts. We found out this evening, that due to the killing of the Farce Rebel Leader, our lives were threatened in Istmina. Therefore, they moved all of the logistics and preparations to a city of 700,000 named Quibdo. Pray with us for this city. We have had safe travel, great accommodations, a presentation abut the strategy for the crusade and are now ready to hit the bed in order to be ready at 5 am. I will do my best to keep you updated. The four of us are extremely excited and look forward to great life change before our eyes. Wish you all were here! See ya tomorrow! Live fast and remember, we only get one shot at this! :)

Here again

Hey team, it has been a while and I can only say we have had so much going on it is crazy. The Lord is busy and has invited us to more than we have discovered His will to access yet. I am in Arkansas at a great fellowship in Bee Be. Union Valley Baptist Church is a rural location, with a great staff, with an amazing personality, who love to worship and be with each other. It has been a blessing to be here. The reason I am back is because I leave Friday with Pastor Brant O'Connor, Paul Testa, and Billy Frosch for our first work as a team in Columbia. We will leave Friday and return Thursday in time to start a meeting in Grand Prairie on Friday. Please be our prayer partners and keep up with our campaign I will put pics on the blog as Internet allows. I am in the final stretch of the EMBA I have been working on. Time is demanding between now and March 1 so please keep that in your thoughts. Well I love you all and can not wait to connect in the future. Cuidate!
David

San Antonio Camp

Hey all, sorry for being such a sorry blogger, and I am exhausted tonight but I had to write. It has been an amazing camp this week, but tonight was something special. Jeff Johnson and the band were leading worship, the rain was pouring! I started looking for boats. The roof was leaking! Kids were soaked! I stood up and just felt like God had already done His thing and so I just stood and said "some of you are already ready, you have been waiting all week, He has called you and is waiting for you to receive Him. We prayed and WOW! The largest response of the week. In all their were many more than 100 decisions for Christ this week. Students called to full time service, just a amazing week. Thought you all would want to know. Sleep, then one more service in the morning and home! Love you all! Living fast! Trusting Him! Later guy's
David

At Alto Frio

Hey team, long time no communicate. I am at Alto Frio Baptist Camp this week with about 745 students. It has been great so far. Team TSEA members the Corkers and Kalnbach's are also here. Last week was a blast with Gary and Sandy Smith in Scotland. The weather cooperated and Gary and I got to play two of the most famous golf courses in the world. Yep, Carnustie Championship course and The Old Course at St. Andrews. Before that I was in Cali Columbia and we had an extremely productive time there. Here a re a couple of pics, and I will post more toward the end of the week. Love you all, living fast. David

Kayla is a High Scool Gradate

Hey all, Ashley, Corbin, Garrett, Mom, Dad and Maw Maw joined Kayla Marie Burk in Pensacola, FL for her high school graduation. She along with 339 other class mates celebrated their accomplishment with wonderful commencement exercises and then a day (or two) at the beach. Wow, you should have seen Kayla and Maw Maw throwing the Frisbee in the gulf! Fresh fish, white sand, and Baskin Robbins were all on the menu. It has been a great time by all and now we are preparing to leave in a thunderstorm.

Since Benson, AZ I have been in Alexandria, LA, and Grape Creek, TX. It was great to see people come to life change in both locations. Grape Creek experienced a real week of life change harvest with over 35 people coming into a relationship with their God. It was fun to see all of the teenagers so engaged int he week.

Well, Next week it is off to Columbia, then Scotland, then the Crystal Cothran wedding, followed by youth Camp in Alto Frio, TX It is a busy time but hey, you only live once. I miss you all, especially those I have not seen in a while. Love you all and look forward to our next connect. Live fast! You only get one shot!
David

In Benson AZ

Hey friends, it has been a while since I last wrote. I am sorry. I got to China and they blocked my blog. I got to South Africa and they had no Internet where I was so it has been hard to catch up. This week I am in Benson Arizona. It is nice and dry. Temperatures have been in the 70's. We are having good crowds and have seen God change some lives. No complaints. The kids are doing well and Deb is working hard to get ready for the spring. I have had a great time meeting new friends from all over the world. Since March 2, I have been in the air over 47,000 miles. Wow and I tired of those little seats. However, I have made some of the coolest relationships ever, seen God lead me in incredible situations, and have traveled this world. It has been too cool. I really miss my family though. Kayla was bothered the other night because some of her friends had been rejected by the church. I wanted to be with her as she hurt, but I was so pleased with her position. Garrett will be playing in his last baseball games this week and I will not be there but he is always the first to encourage me that I need to be doing what I do. I have such great kids. Ashley will finish all of her preparation for teaching high school in the school district this week and is excited about a new vocation and ministry path. I am so proud of their decisions. They are all three so much better than I ever was. Well, I will try to get some pics later but just wanted to say hello and let you know I am still breathing! Hey let's go to Israel together!!!! check out www.discoveryministries.com and go to the enter ministries tab and then locate our name in the left coll0um. I would love for each of you to experience the trip of a life time! EVERYONE is welcome!

In Xian

Hey we are in Xian, but can't upload pictures. I will try to put some visual on when I get back to the US. Xian is a great city of 8 million people. It is a mix of new and old. There are great bell towers and watch towers with traditional style and architecture overlooking KFC, Starbucks, and McDonald's. Today Jimmy is viewing the Terracotta Warriors while I am catching up and this afternoon we will spend the day with the Schirmers and their life here in China. Thanks for keeping up with me. Glad I like noodles! Ha Ha! From China living moderately fast! love you all.
David

Made it to China

Hey guy's, I got into the blog through our intranet at the church. They had me blocked in the regular Internet. Jimmy and I made it fine. We had a great day of research and cultural understanding yesterday. We met a wonderful, lost, Chinese guide by the name of Jin. He will also take us to the airport today for our trip to Xian where we will meet Steve Schirmer and family. Hope to make a real connection with him before we leave. I will add some pics when I get to Xian, now that I can access this way. Stay in touch! Love you all. Slowing down and drinking the tea in China! :)

David

Home in Arlington

I am home sweet home! Here is a picture of the pastor of the new church. Pastor Aslam and his family with Wes James, Rody Chesser, and myself. They are praying for another child.
Did not take long to get acclimated as Debbie, Ashley, Corbin, Kayla, and Garrett all took me to Marianos for Supper last night. Well, today I will pay bills, repack, write some papers and enjoy the family then at 5:30 am tomorrow, Jimmy Gault and I will jump on a plane for China! Keep watching. Here is a link to what they found in Lahore the day we departed! Thanks for all of your prayers, no doubt the Father watched over His children! Love you all. Have to move. Stay tuned!
David

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2010%5C03%5C17%5Cstory_17-3-2010_pg13_9

In Dubai

In Dubai and headed for home! Well it's been an outstanding adventure and it was hard to say good bye to our newest friends, but now it's time to be home! I am really looking forward to seeing my family! Here is a video of the walk into the new church in Patoki. What a cool day it was. I really enjoy being immersed into a different culture. I don't always do it well but I do always enjoy the adventure. I will only be home Wednesday! I get home Tuesday afternoon and board another plane Thursday with Jimmy Gault, and head for Beijing! Yep, it's hello/good bye and did you get the clothes picked up at the cleaners? Ha Ha! My wife is a jewel! She takes care of me. Well, I'm tired and dirty and so I'm quitting! Will be off a couple of days then will bring china to you! Stay tuned and know I love ya! Slowing down but living fast!
David

New Congregation in Pakistan

Well, our time is coming to an end. We are packing and getting ready to board a plane back to the USA. Today was an amazing day. First of all we were in a new church that celebrated it's first day as a congregation. That's right, a new church in Pakistan. 107 people attended as members. Of that, 90 were new Christians within the last year, 80 have been Baptized, and 85 are involved in discipleship training. In addition, we have been able to support a Pastor working out there each week. Pastor Aslam leaves his family three to four days a week, goes to Patoki and works in the field. On top of that they purchased the land and constructed a building for $4,000.00 Wow, that's pretty cool! We then had experiences beyond my understanding and ability to solve, but once again God proved it is not about us. I have met so many new friends this trip, and renewed important relationships. I am exhausted and have school to do so I have to stop now! I will post again when I arrive home before getting on a plane to China. Bless you all as you bless me so much! Can't wait to see each of you..... I miss you! Well, slowing down but still living faster than most! ha ha! Cuidate!
David

Final day for Campaign

Well, Today there have been a total of 9 Bomb blast in the city of Lahore. The first two were suicide Bombers and over 45 people were killed with many more injured. The following seven have been neighborhood blast designed to scare and cause panic. No one has been killed in the last seven. We are fine, no panic here and just finished our last night of sharing Jesus Campaign. Tomorrow, Lord willing, we will instruct about 100 Pastors and leaders in faithful leadership. Over the three nights we saw over 7000 people respond publicly with their faith in Christ alone! Wow, how humbling is that? While many died in Lahore today many more have come to life. Well I'm off to work on a final and then get an hour or two sleep! I'll check in tomorrow! Have a great weekend and enjoy all life brings you. Living fast! Loving you!
David

Night 2 Rody invites

Well another great night. Sorry for being late, I was so tired. This night the crowd was larger than ever. Many could not even be seen with the camera. There were many thousands who responded. Wes led in worship, I gave a testimony of the sacrifice of my wife and her love for me, and Rody brought a message of love and hope. Wow, catch the response. The second video is of the blast sight. It is so unique to be here. Terrorism everywhere, and yet " The Lord keeps your enemies away" We toured the blast sight yesterday, read of the World Vision personnel being killed then shared the Love of Christ with over 8000 Pakistanis. How can we do anything else? Thanks to all who are taking every step. Your gifts, prayers, and love are what allows our availability Your the team! Keep it up and I will do better to report! Hey FYI Garrett played in the winning effort of his baseball team yesterday and Kayla is on her way back from Florida this morning. Ashley is her usual over achieving self and Deb keeps it all together..Thanks a lot. Corbin and I just keep thinking we are the most fortunate guy's in the world. Living fast [but not fast enough these days!] and loving people!
David

I'st night response

The first night is in the books. Here is a little of the response time. It was amazing. To the best of our ability to count there were between 6 and 8 thousand people present and at least 30% responding publicly with a decision to trust Christ alone to be the forgiveness of their sin and Lord of their life. What a bold and courageous testimony in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan! Wow! Well it's 1:00 am here and I have a 500 word paper to write so off to work living fast! Enjoy the update! Love you all and wish some of your were here!
David

First day video

Here is a link to recent stats from Operation World
Here is a link to the article in today's paper: VIP's Visit Blast Site, Overlook Victims

First day in Lahore

 Hey Team, we are here and rested.  I promise to update daily so you can keep up with our progress as well as our health.  We arrived in Lahore to discover less than 24 hrs earlier radical fundamentalist Taliban had blown up the FIA [similar to our CIA] building in a Christian neighborhood.  Several killed and injured and much damage.  However, we are very comfortable at the Holiday Inn and feel very secure.  Here is a little video of the three of us enjoying a nice morning.  The Internet is supberb, food good, hospitality wonderful and preparations for tonight complete.  I will send more when we have more.  Keep us lifted and have fun with this! Hello to all of the family!  Dad is just being Dad!  Your my Heroes! :)  Living fast!

Loving all!

David

PS  I discovered on the way to the airport, my wife doesn't really see the value and importance of the whole living fast thing.  [Maybe I should do a little more of that fast living at home and with her? ] Ya think?

Landed in Dubai Head to Lahore in 8 hrs

Well, the first leg of the trip is done.  Rody, Wes and I are all together in Dubai.  We have a long layover here but have opted for the first class lounge rather than the Hotel since the rooms were 499.00 per night last year.  All is really going well.  I am feeling a little tired just now but we will have our first day in Lahore to rest.  I know I am a terrible blogger, but I promise I will do my best to keep it updated while we are over here.  I hope to share some pictures and movies as the campaign begins.  Well I will let you know when we get with our friends in Lahore.  Live fast!  Love you all!

David

4k into a marathon!

Wow, I'm in a run!  I just landed in San Angelo TX after spending the last four days in Phoenix AZ.  It is a beautiful day in San Angelo here for the Dr.  L J Latimer and Melissa Dickson wedding.  Tuesday through Friday I completed my first 4 day residency with the Ken Blanchard school of Leadership.  It was one of the most mentally stimulating events I have been in all of my life!!!!!!  What a thrill to hear some of the greatest Leaders and Business minds on the planet discuss and talk about Organizational strategies, self awareness, stakeholder communication, etc.......  Dr.Ken, Dr.Margie, Dr.Scott Blanchard, Professors Dr.Caren Siehl, Dr.Vicki Halsey, Taylor Carr, Dr. Colleen Barrett,[President emeritus Southwest Airlines]Dr. Kevin Freiberg, Sheldon Harris[founder and former CEO Cold Stone Creamery]  and many others.  Giants in the Field pouring themselves into me!  Wow, how did this happen? Well, I have to admit I am a little overwhelmed and out of my league, but it will be a challenge and keep me growing.  I was asked today if i was getting out of ministry!  I laughed, then said I was too old to do anything else, then explained.  When I go to Venezuela i learn some Spanish to increase my CQ [Cultural Quotient]  When I go to Africa I eat what they eat, when I go to Pakistan I wear a Birka, if I'm going to love and understand Americans, I need to know the culture and language we now speak!  It's all about personal growth in order to be all things to all men!  Hey, can't do this any longer.  Wedding tonight, Hebron Baptist in North Texas starting tomorrow, then Pakistan, then China, then Fielder Road.  In the midst of that I will be doing homework!  I will miss all of Garrett's Baseball games, Kayla Spring Break, and a Month without Debbie!  Keep me in your thoughts and prayers!  Love you all, Living fast!  Time is ticking away, don't get bogged down!!!!!!

David