The Light of the Gospel. The Glory of God.

As we close the chapter on 2025, my heart overflows with gratitude for what God has accomplished through the ministries of Avant during the past year. Our theme verse for 2025 has guided us all year long:

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” 2 Co. 4:6

This truth has been an anchor. In a world gripped by spiritual darkness, God continues to shine His light through the faithful work of His people.

The Light That Transforms

Paul reminds us that the same God who spoke light into existence at creation now shines His light into human hearts. That light is not just illumination—it is transformation. In 2025, we have witnessed this transformation in powerful ways. From urban centers in Europe and Latin America to remote villages in Africa and Asia, men, women, and children have encountered the glory of Christ and stepped out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Through your prayers and support, Avant missionaries are planting and developing new churches among unreached peoples and mobilizing maturing believers to join them to reach the ends of the earth. In the Middle East, a small fellowship is growing into a vibrant community of believers, boldly proclaiming Christ despite opposition. In Africa, theological training is equipping local leaders to shepherd their congregations with biblical depth and cultural sensitivity, leading to new churches being planted. Each story is a testimony to God’s light breaking through darkness.

Persevering in the Mission

Earlier in 2 Corinthians 4, Paul speaks of the gospel being veiled to those who are perishing. We know this is the case among more than 3 billion people globally who have little or no access to the light of the gospel. This reality weighs heavily on us. Yet, we do not lose heart.

The many challenges of 2025 that we confront on a global scale—political instability, economic hardship, and spiritual resistance—could easily discourage us. But God’s Word reminds us that the light we carry is not our own; it is His. This truth has sustained our teams in difficult places, where hope seems dim and progress slow.

Shining the Light on Every Continent

Throughout the month of December, many of our churches and missionaries around the world are engaged in significant outreach events during the Advent and Christmas season. As you prepare for your own Christmas celebration and perhaps various year-end ministries and outreaches in your church, I invite you to think of the cross-cultural workers and ministries that you or your church support around the world. Avant missionaries are positioned in almost every time zone on the planet. Envision a city, a people group, a country, or even a continent in which the missionary or missionaries you support are engaged in ministry during this season. Pray for them as they endeavor to share the hope of Christ, our Emmanuel. Pray for the light of the gospel to shine brightly through their ministry efforts.

Looking Ahead

As we anticipate 2026, we do so with confidence, not in our strength but in God’s promise. The darkness is real, but the light is greater. And our calling remains clear: to proclaim Christ where He is not known, until the knowledge of His glory fills the earth.

Your part in this journey is vital. None of this is possible without your partnership in prayer, giving, and sending. Thank you for you for caring deeply, giving generously, and praying fervently. To God be the glory!

3 Billion Reasons

In our globally connected world, there are more than 3 billion people who have rarely or never heard the transforming message of the gospel. That means more than a third of humanity is still waiting to experience the hope found in Jesus Christ. Learn how you can help change that!

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