“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight,” Proverbs 3:5-6, is a foundational verse in John’s life, as is Romans 8:28. “When I operate in the heavenly realms, nothing of this world can stand in my way, because my focus is on Him and His purpose,” comments John.

John was born into a loving Christian family, and has always enjoyed the vast world of God’s creation. He accepted Jesus as his Savior at age seven, and has had a growing relationship with the Lord all his life. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, John lived in several states during his school years. He earned a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. After college, John served 12 years as a pilot in the Air Force, and was stationed in England for several years with his family, traveling and serving throughout Europe.

Marilyn was born in Inglewood, California, and raised in Virginia and Tennessee, by loving Christian parents. She gave her life to Christ at age eight, and God has drawn her closer to Him all along the way. “I often think of my skills as my tools, but I think my greatest tool will be my willingness to serve God in whatever capacity I can.” As she has helped with the program accounting and shopped for missionaries in the interior, she shares, “I’ve really been tested on that statement this term!”

Marilyn quotes Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” “This is my reminder that every thing I do is for God, not just the spiritual things,” says Marilyn.

Marilyn attended the University of Tennessee where she majored in English and Spanish, and she was an exchange student at the Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain. She has taught junior high, high school, and adults, and is certified to teach English as a Second Language. She also holds a private pilot’s license. Marilyn and John met during college and married in 1989.

To fund the worldwide ministry of MAF, God is faithful in providing loyal, generous ministry support from thousands of His most caring people. He has called the men and women of MAF to serve Him in a unique way. He is also calling thousands of people like you around the world to play a special role in the ministry of MAF.

You are invited to become a ministry partner with John and Marilyn in this strategic ministry. Please prayerfully consider involvement with them through prayer and/or financial support.

Commendation from Africa Regional Director, Fran Derocher