For those of you who are just joining our story, I want to say welcome, and thank you for reading! My family and I moved from Michigan to Phoenix, Arizona, in February of 2018. It’s hard to believe that it has been 10 months—nearly a year—already! We moved down here to follow the Lord’s call to help plant a church. We joined together with Pastor Joe Soria (wife Joy, son Ethan), and a small team of hard-working former-midwesterners to launch Arise Church in April 2018. My husband, Matt, does a lot of behind-the-scenes work, including computer-based programs, sound & lighting education & formation, and sets our sound system up each week. He also plays the drums on our worship team. I lead the worship music ministry and meet weekly as a part of the leadership team to pray, plan, and help grow this church to be what God has uniquely called us to be in this community.
It is both a joy and a challenge to help build a church from the start. Anyone who’s helped with a church plant or portable church knows the wear that set-up & tear-down can be each week, as we have been renting space in an elementary school in a Peoria neighborhood. But, many hands make the work light. It’s amazing how strong our little church family (as I like to call it) has become. I am amazed at how God is working in the lives of people here, and it has been a privilege to be a part of that. The people of Arise Church have been a blessing to me as I can only hope and pray I have been and will continue to be to them.
Part of church planting involves raising funds. As missionaries in this city, we have had to raise money both for our church and for our family personally. My husband does work full-time outside of the church to help support us financially, but it’s not quite enough to cover our expenses. We live simply, and are still living out of our RV until we can afford to be in a house. We have a few people who generously give to us each month, and we are so grateful for that! Currently, we are looking for 6 more people who can give $100 a month for the next 6 months or so. We are hoping that in 6 months or so we will be able to be more self-sustaining (after we get on a cheaper insurance plan & redo some of our budgeting). The reality is, right now, we are behind on bills, have put all we can on credit, and are late in paying our rent. So your financial giving will truly make a difference. Just this week, we didn’t know how we would get groceries, and at just the right time, we received a check in the mail, which allowed us to buy groceries (thank you to that family-you know who you are)!
Please consider giving monthly for the next 6 months. It would bless us in a way that both lifts a burden and allows us to serve without restraint, knowing our basic needs are taken care of. By partnering with us, you are, in a way, helping be a missionary to those in this area as well.
Your prayers are important as well! We are so thankful for those who have committed to praying for us regularly. Thank you.
You can mail your check to us to the address below, or you can give online by going to arisechurchaz.org/give. After you put the dollar amount in, you can select “Matt and Tori Walker Support.” Or on a check, be sure to say “Walker Support.”
Thank you! May God bless you as you seek Him.
Tori Walker
Arise Church
In c/o Matt or Tori Walker
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
Matt & Tori Walker
2398 W Williams Dr
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Monday, November 19, 2018
Saturday, November 17, 2018
faithful one
Have you ever had a season of your life where you felt there was a repetitious theme trying to infiltrate it’s way into your head? If you’re like me, there have been many over the span of a few decades. I can think of several words that have encapsulated the subject matter of each of those seasons, and the lessons that accompanied them.
I believe that recurring themes can be one way God reaches us & speaks to our heart. The lessons I have learned and the revelation imparted to me are not just for me, but for those around me as well. So I try to share as transparently as I can with others, in hopes that they will be inspired, encouraged, and ultimately be drawn into something more meaningful with God as well.
Faithfulness.
“Faithful” has been my word for several months now. (One theme, many lessons.)
And I believe it’s a word for those around me as well. Remember God’s promises; remember his goodness; see his faithfulness in all things, through all generations and continuing on. He is at work RIGHT NOW in your situation and mine, and he’s not going to quit. God never leaves us, gives up on us, or leaves us to figure “it” out on our own. That doesn’t mean we sit idly until something “magical” happens. No. We must pursue Him, be in His word, and worship him in all circumstances. We must be willing to allow his spirit to transform our hearts.
God is the same yesterday, today, and always. He is faithful and good. He loves you. He loves me. And greater things are yet to come. If you’re in a place where it’s hard to see that, hard to believe that, then rest in his promises, knowing that our faithful God will see it through just as he always does. He is faithful!
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV
“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
1 Thessalonians 5:24 NIV
“Your love, LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.”
Psalm 36:5 NIV
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Education at Home
Getting an education at home.
My husband and I have strived to make our daily experiences “teachable moments” for our kids, from the start. Teaching our kids good manners, including them in (some) budgeting and minor financial decisions, character-building, and other life-skills are all a part of everyday, ongoing, learning. Of course, taking on “homeschooling” has brought a much deeper expansion and commitment to educating our kids at home.
It’s not all glam. (Did anyone imagine it to be?)
Staying at & working from home is new to me.
It’s not always as organized as I’d like it to be.
It doesn’t always go how I plan.
Some days I feel like the kids are getting a better complete education at home.
Some days I feel like I am failing them.
Our small living quarters can get very messy, quickly.
I wish they had a similar friend group like they did before.
The balance of mom/teacher/chef/maid is a constant challenge.
This season has several new elements for us, hat are causing us to stretch, learn, and grow. Though it’s many hardships and challenges, we have realized that we have drawn closer together as a family. Our faith has been strengthened. Our relationships are being remolded into something new, stronger, healthier. I am so thankful for this season and for all that God has allowed me to experience. What a blessing it is to be able to be with my kids everyday! What a blessing it is to be able to manage their education! What a blessing (and responsibility) to be able to give them a healthy and solid foundation on which to build heir lives.
It may not be traditional, nor look like what others are doing, but we are “doing our thing,” educating our kids at home, and what a great privilege that has been!
Tori
My husband and I have strived to make our daily experiences “teachable moments” for our kids, from the start. Teaching our kids good manners, including them in (some) budgeting and minor financial decisions, character-building, and other life-skills are all a part of everyday, ongoing, learning. Of course, taking on “homeschooling” has brought a much deeper expansion and commitment to educating our kids at home.
It’s not all glam. (Did anyone imagine it to be?)
Staying at & working from home is new to me.
It’s not always as organized as I’d like it to be.
It doesn’t always go how I plan.
Some days I feel like the kids are getting a better complete education at home.
Some days I feel like I am failing them.
Our small living quarters can get very messy, quickly.
I wish they had a similar friend group like they did before.
The balance of mom/teacher/chef/maid is a constant challenge.
This season has several new elements for us, hat are causing us to stretch, learn, and grow. Though it’s many hardships and challenges, we have realized that we have drawn closer together as a family. Our faith has been strengthened. Our relationships are being remolded into something new, stronger, healthier. I am so thankful for this season and for all that God has allowed me to experience. What a blessing it is to be able to be with my kids everyday! What a blessing it is to be able to manage their education! What a blessing (and responsibility) to be able to give them a healthy and solid foundation on which to build heir lives.
It may not be traditional, nor look like what others are doing, but we are “doing our thing,” educating our kids at home, and what a great privilege that has been!
Tori
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
be still
Today’s YouVersion (Bible app) verse of the day is from Psalm 46, and days, “Be still and know that I am God.” It’s such a good verse to just meditate on, isn’t it? Who is God? He is creator, provider, redeemer, healer, savior, king, friend... it doesn’t stop there, but those are just a few names to describe “who” he is. He is God. And we can rest in Him in good times and bad, easy times and hard. I am taking time today to just be still. I want to rest in his goodness; in his promises. And ask him yet again, “What is it that you want me to do, God?”
A big part of what I hear him (reiterating) telling me to do....
I have decided to pull back to sub-status at Tutor Time and stay home with my kids, since Matt just went back to work full time for the school year. I will be homeschooling my kids, and just found a Christian-based curriculum that I am really excited to implement. It will help me teach/give them solid Biblical knowledge and challenge them acidemically, at their exact level. Now I’m just looking for groups, co-ops, and/or sporting activities to get them involved in. Please pray for us as we search out our social groups and look to get more connected with our community.
We continue to serve at Arise Church in worship ministry, and are making fall plans to engage our community, reach the lost and hurting, and build up the church and our community. Summer has been slow, yet steady. Please pray for our church leadership team and core team as we put forth our efforts each week to reach people for Jesus. We are praying and hoping for growth, both “deeper and wider”, and have begun to see it, praise God!
It has been HOT lately. 110-115 for the past two weeks. That is not ideal in our camper. With the air running constantly, it still stays in the lower to mid 90s (inside)! So we have been trying to escape when possible, and swim to cool down a bit! Thankfully it cools down at night to the upper seventies.
Please consider supporting us financially, if you aren’t already. We have adjusted our budget, yet continue to have more expenses than income, and there have been some events that have set us back a bit. You can give to the “Matt and Tori Walker Support” through arisechurchaz.org/give, or consider choosing something below to cover through check.
NEEDS:
Tori’s ER visit - $800
Car fuel pump went out - $775
Monthly support - $100 from 4-6 people
WANTS:
POGO Pass - $40 per person or $200 total *w/discount code (fun family activities around Phoenix; going to 2 Diamondbacks games pays for itself just there—so you can see how great of a deal it is! Visit pogopass.com code: FRIENDSOFPOGO or find it on Groupon)
In Other News...
Well, we have driven through and survived two monsoons! The Lord has kept us safe and we praise him for that! So glad our fuel pump didn’t go out during a storm, or during 110+ temps, (because it happened on a busy freeway and wouldn’t even start back up)!!!!
Thankful for God’s love!
Thankful for safety!
Thankful for the new friendships we have here (and the old ones)!
Thankful that God doesn’t give up on us!
Thankful for our RV and the pool at this RV park!
What can you thank God for today?
Tori & Matt Walker
2398 W Williams Drive #517
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Mailing:
The Walker Family
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
A big part of what I hear him (reiterating) telling me to do....
I have decided to pull back to sub-status at Tutor Time and stay home with my kids, since Matt just went back to work full time for the school year. I will be homeschooling my kids, and just found a Christian-based curriculum that I am really excited to implement. It will help me teach/give them solid Biblical knowledge and challenge them acidemically, at their exact level. Now I’m just looking for groups, co-ops, and/or sporting activities to get them involved in. Please pray for us as we search out our social groups and look to get more connected with our community.
We continue to serve at Arise Church in worship ministry, and are making fall plans to engage our community, reach the lost and hurting, and build up the church and our community. Summer has been slow, yet steady. Please pray for our church leadership team and core team as we put forth our efforts each week to reach people for Jesus. We are praying and hoping for growth, both “deeper and wider”, and have begun to see it, praise God!
It has been HOT lately. 110-115 for the past two weeks. That is not ideal in our camper. With the air running constantly, it still stays in the lower to mid 90s (inside)! So we have been trying to escape when possible, and swim to cool down a bit! Thankfully it cools down at night to the upper seventies.
Please consider supporting us financially, if you aren’t already. We have adjusted our budget, yet continue to have more expenses than income, and there have been some events that have set us back a bit. You can give to the “Matt and Tori Walker Support” through arisechurchaz.org/give, or consider choosing something below to cover through check.
NEEDS:
Tori’s ER visit - $800
Car fuel pump went out - $775
Monthly support - $100 from 4-6 people
WANTS:
POGO Pass - $40 per person or $200 total *w/discount code (fun family activities around Phoenix; going to 2 Diamondbacks games pays for itself just there—so you can see how great of a deal it is! Visit pogopass.com code: FRIENDSOFPOGO or find it on Groupon)
In Other News...
Well, we have driven through and survived two monsoons! The Lord has kept us safe and we praise him for that! So glad our fuel pump didn’t go out during a storm, or during 110+ temps, (because it happened on a busy freeway and wouldn’t even start back up)!!!!
Thankful for God’s love!
Thankful for safety!
Thankful for the new friendships we have here (and the old ones)!
Thankful that God doesn’t give up on us!
Thankful for our RV and the pool at this RV park!
What can you thank God for today?
Tori & Matt Walker
2398 W Williams Drive #517
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Mailing:
The Walker Family
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
wait for it...
I am a few days late with this month's update, but nevertheless, here's what's going on...
There are many "little" updates, regarding work, health, etc., so I will post those at the end. First I want to share something that God has been impressing on my heart in the last month or so.
Do you ever feel like you say "yes" to God, and then he abandons you? Maybe you don't feel like he totally leaves, but you feel as though he walked in another room; he gave you a piece of the puzzle, and you have to figure out what to do with it. It's like putting together a new piece of furniture without knowing what it is you are building. So you start to ask, "Should I start with this piece?" "Does this go here?" "Am I using the right tool?" or "Is this what it's supposed to look like?"
Sometimes it's so clear why God brings us into something. And other times, it's hard to see. Like really hard. And we start to question it. But I know from God's word and from experience, that if we hold on, if we wait upon the Lord, if we remain faithful to him, we will come to see the promise. God is faithful and never breaks a promise. If he led you to it, he'll lead you through it. He anoints and appoints. I've been reminded over & over of Abraham and Sarah. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations; that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. But he didn't have any children, and he was nearly a hundred years old. However, we all know how the story unfolds. Sarah became pregnant and gave birth to their son, Issac! But it didn't happen immediately. It took years for that to happen. I wonder what they went through in the waiting period. I wonder if they ever doubted. I wonder if they ever grew frustrated. I wonder if they felt like God abandoned them.
First of all, trusting in something God-ordained that doesn't make sense to us at the time, is hard to do. (Having a child at nearly 100 years old.)
Second, waiting and working for that promise to come is hard, and many people lose faith and give up. (They didn't receive that promise immediately & tried to "make" that son through another woman.)
But it's important to remember that if God promised it, he will fulfill it! Remain faithful and true to him, even when you can't "see" him at work. Trust that he is at work in everything and everyone around you. So don't waste the waiting. If you begin to lose hope, remember 'Abraham and Sarah', and know that the same God who brought them great nations through a son at age one-hundred, will fulfill whatever promise he's given you. He will DO IT AGAIN. He continues to work miracles and show up in hopeless situations and pour out his blessings on his people. Look to him. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfector of your faith.
He is a miracle-working God! His promises are true. Don't give up. Keep pressing on. Keep pressing in to Him. I'm so honored to serve him and to be called his child. It's not always easy to say "yes" to the Lord, but it's always worth it. He is worthy. He is to be praised. He is beautiful. He is glorified!
"All His promises are YES and AMEN!" (Song here: Yes & Amen )
- Tori
Here are some highlights from the last month-and-a-half:
- We are still at the RV park, trying to keep it cool in these HOT summer months!
- Tori was sick with a cough for a couple weeks in May/June. One night had bad chest pains. Was worried about heart trouble. Went to ER. All is well... just pneumonia & bronchitis.
- Arise Church began weekly Bible studies that correspond to Sunday's teachings. We've been going to that as a family. It's helped us to establish friendships and get to know people in our church better, as well as have discussion about God & the Bible.
- We celebrated Ephriam's birthday at the end of May, and Tori's birthday at the end of June.
- Tori got a job at Tutor Time in Paradise Valley/Phoenix.
- Jennifer, Joe, and Tori went to a pastors-gathering about church assessment led by Mark Driscoll.
- Matt's grandma Opal (Brenda's mom) was killed in a car accident the last week of June. Matt was able to go to Ohio to see his family and be there for the funeral & such. Please lift the family up in prayer over this unexpected news.
- We celebrated the 4th of July with our church family at Apache park, handing out glow sticks and SnoCones to anyone who wanted them. It was a hot one! And FYI, Arizona aint got nothin' on Michigan fireworks... of course, it is a desert here and there are many restrictions! lol (We are so used to being on a lake! Missing our lakes, boats, and beaches this time of year!)
- In trying to escape a dust-storm & thunderstorm, we accidentally drove THROUGH a dust-storm. Not gonna lie, that was scary! Very windy. Couldn't see the car directly in front of me at times. Had to stop/pull over a couple times. Felt almost tornado-like. Trees were uprooted, and we saw (and heard) an explosion on a power line that shook me up as the driver of the vehicle. But, we made it to the mall to wait out the rest of the storm. I'm glad we experienced that, because now we know what to expect! No damage. The RV survived!
- Matt will go back to work at the end of July (his job is a 10-month job).
Thanks for reading and keeping in touch. Thank you for your prayers and financial support. If you're able to give, we would so appreciate it! We still need more ongoing monthly support. You can write a check or give online by going to Arise Church Giving and selecting "Matt and Tori Walker Support."
God bless you!
There are many "little" updates, regarding work, health, etc., so I will post those at the end. First I want to share something that God has been impressing on my heart in the last month or so.
Do you ever feel like you say "yes" to God, and then he abandons you? Maybe you don't feel like he totally leaves, but you feel as though he walked in another room; he gave you a piece of the puzzle, and you have to figure out what to do with it. It's like putting together a new piece of furniture without knowing what it is you are building. So you start to ask, "Should I start with this piece?" "Does this go here?" "Am I using the right tool?" or "Is this what it's supposed to look like?"
Sometimes it's so clear why God brings us into something. And other times, it's hard to see. Like really hard. And we start to question it. But I know from God's word and from experience, that if we hold on, if we wait upon the Lord, if we remain faithful to him, we will come to see the promise. God is faithful and never breaks a promise. If he led you to it, he'll lead you through it. He anoints and appoints. I've been reminded over & over of Abraham and Sarah. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations; that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. But he didn't have any children, and he was nearly a hundred years old. However, we all know how the story unfolds. Sarah became pregnant and gave birth to their son, Issac! But it didn't happen immediately. It took years for that to happen. I wonder what they went through in the waiting period. I wonder if they ever doubted. I wonder if they ever grew frustrated. I wonder if they felt like God abandoned them.
First of all, trusting in something God-ordained that doesn't make sense to us at the time, is hard to do. (Having a child at nearly 100 years old.)
Second, waiting and working for that promise to come is hard, and many people lose faith and give up. (They didn't receive that promise immediately & tried to "make" that son through another woman.)
But it's important to remember that if God promised it, he will fulfill it! Remain faithful and true to him, even when you can't "see" him at work. Trust that he is at work in everything and everyone around you. So don't waste the waiting. If you begin to lose hope, remember 'Abraham and Sarah', and know that the same God who brought them great nations through a son at age one-hundred, will fulfill whatever promise he's given you. He will DO IT AGAIN. He continues to work miracles and show up in hopeless situations and pour out his blessings on his people. Look to him. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfector of your faith.
He is a miracle-working God! His promises are true. Don't give up. Keep pressing on. Keep pressing in to Him. I'm so honored to serve him and to be called his child. It's not always easy to say "yes" to the Lord, but it's always worth it. He is worthy. He is to be praised. He is beautiful. He is glorified!
"All His promises are YES and AMEN!" (Song here: Yes & Amen )
- Tori
Here are some highlights from the last month-and-a-half:
- We are still at the RV park, trying to keep it cool in these HOT summer months!
- Tori was sick with a cough for a couple weeks in May/June. One night had bad chest pains. Was worried about heart trouble. Went to ER. All is well... just pneumonia & bronchitis.
- Arise Church began weekly Bible studies that correspond to Sunday's teachings. We've been going to that as a family. It's helped us to establish friendships and get to know people in our church better, as well as have discussion about God & the Bible.
- We celebrated Ephriam's birthday at the end of May, and Tori's birthday at the end of June.
- Tori got a job at Tutor Time in Paradise Valley/Phoenix.
- Jennifer, Joe, and Tori went to a pastors-gathering about church assessment led by Mark Driscoll.
- Matt's grandma Opal (Brenda's mom) was killed in a car accident the last week of June. Matt was able to go to Ohio to see his family and be there for the funeral & such. Please lift the family up in prayer over this unexpected news.
- We celebrated the 4th of July with our church family at Apache park, handing out glow sticks and SnoCones to anyone who wanted them. It was a hot one! And FYI, Arizona aint got nothin' on Michigan fireworks... of course, it is a desert here and there are many restrictions! lol (We are so used to being on a lake! Missing our lakes, boats, and beaches this time of year!)
- In trying to escape a dust-storm & thunderstorm, we accidentally drove THROUGH a dust-storm. Not gonna lie, that was scary! Very windy. Couldn't see the car directly in front of me at times. Had to stop/pull over a couple times. Felt almost tornado-like. Trees were uprooted, and we saw (and heard) an explosion on a power line that shook me up as the driver of the vehicle. But, we made it to the mall to wait out the rest of the storm. I'm glad we experienced that, because now we know what to expect! No damage. The RV survived!
- Matt will go back to work at the end of July (his job is a 10-month job).
Thanks for reading and keeping in touch. Thank you for your prayers and financial support. If you're able to give, we would so appreciate it! We still need more ongoing monthly support. You can write a check or give online by going to Arise Church Giving and selecting "Matt and Tori Walker Support."
God bless you!
Monday, May 28, 2018
Mission-Work-In-Phoenix
A lot of times when one thinks of missionaries or mission work, a foreign land and people far away comes to mind, perhaps impoverished, sick, or recently struck with disaster. Missionaries sacrifice the comfort of their own life-as-they-knew-it to travel away from "home" and in many cases live right there with the people they are serving, striving to help the community that surrounds them by evangelizing, educating, feeding, building, and helping the people with their greatest needs.
Missionaries are needed everywhere. But a lot of times people don't think about the need right in their own community (yes, even wealthier, healthier places--spiritual deprivation likely exists).
Everyone has a mission field. Where is it you are called? For me, it has always been about the church. For some reason, God created me this way... I am a people-person... from the infant baby girl to the great-great-grandpa, I care for them and want God's best for them. The church is the bride of Christ. I want to help it become ready for Christ's return. I've been blessed enough to have worked in various ministries (children, youth, young adult, women, worship) and am thankful for the leaders I've served with and the experiences I've had that have helped me become better at shepherding and leading others. However, the church is not my only mission-field.
My first "mission-field", if you will, is my family. God has entrusted me with 3 children (for now... maybe more in the future??? but don't get thinking anything... not a foreseeable future!) to lead, and a husband to submit to and partner with. And though we are far from perfect, and sometimes I feel we have more failures than successes, we are learning and growing and striving to be the people God wants us to be. We are a team. I love these people. And together we are a stronger force for good than we are on our own. We want to share God's love and "let our light shine" everywhere we go, bringing hope into seemingly-hopeless situations.
My next mission-field is the community around me. God opened doors and brought us to Phoenix. We've been here for almost four months now... wow! My role at Arise Church is that of a worship pastor. But it's not just about the music. It's about the community--the people. If I can help create an environment where people come in and feel the presence of God and encounter him in a powerful way, if somehow God working in me or through a song, or a word of encouragement can draw people closer to him or awaken something inside them, if people can get to the place of singing a song to Jesus with heartfelt-passion and conviction, then I feel I am on-mission. On-point. Doing what I'm called to do. But shepherding and leading people doesn't just happen during a Sunday morning gathering. It happens through relationships, through "doing life" with others, and truly striving to love them like Jesus does. What happens on Sundays is important. But what happens Monday-Saturday is just as important. And as I meet people here, sure, I'm inviting them in to Arise Church, but I want to be their friend as well. I want to share my story, and how God's love has changed me and propelled me to help others. I want to be a disciple-maker.
I am thankful God brought our family to Phoenix. There is a lot we like about being here, and much that God has blessed us with here! But it's not easy; in fact, some days are much harder than others. Helping start up a church and doing this mission work in Phoenix has caused us to give up many comforts... the comfort of family and friends nearby (we are really missing them!), the comfort of a steady paycheck that covered our expenses and allowed us to give and save, the comfort of a house with space for the kids to run around in all the luxuries and/or comforts that come with living in a house, the comfort of familiarity and knowing the community and area, etc.
HEAR THIS: Blessing does not equate to stuff! (That blog is coming soon... it's been brewing inside me.) Just because we are living with less and differently than we had planned does NOT mean we are not blessed. We are VERY blessed. Being uncomfortable may just be a good thing in some ways, and I believe God is showing us that.
A few weeks ago, we didn't know how we would pay for rent, buy groceries, or get by for another month. I wrote about it and shared our story, bluntly stating how broke we were. And as God always does, he provided our every need through His people. We are so thankful to all the people who gave a financial gift to help sustain us during this time. Wow. We are overwhelmed and humbled by the amount of people who reached out to us. However, out of that, only one family was able to commit to supporting us monthly. And though we are SO thankful for that support, we know that in another month or so, we will be back in the same spot. So if you are reading this, and feel compelled to be part of the solution and give on a monthly basis, I can walk you through the steps to make that happen. I know there's a lot of GOOD organizations out there to give to, and plenty of people who need help--even more than us--so as you open up your heart and your wallet, I want to encourage you to ask the Lord to direct you as you give.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for giving. Thank you for praying. Please continue to lift up our family in prayer, as well as the leaders and people of Arise Church, as we seek to do God's work in this community. May you serve well in the mission-field God has called you to!
God bless you,
Tori Walker
ToriWalker22@gmail.com
TO GIVE
Please write a check to "Arise Church" with the memo to "Matt and Tori Walker Support" to this address:
Arise Church
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
---OR---
You can give online with a credit/debit card by going to www.arisechurchaz.org and clicking on the "GIVE" tab. From there, you can select "Matt and Tori Walker Support" or "General" to give to the church.
Missionaries are needed everywhere. But a lot of times people don't think about the need right in their own community (yes, even wealthier, healthier places--spiritual deprivation likely exists).
Everyone has a mission field. Where is it you are called? For me, it has always been about the church. For some reason, God created me this way... I am a people-person... from the infant baby girl to the great-great-grandpa, I care for them and want God's best for them. The church is the bride of Christ. I want to help it become ready for Christ's return. I've been blessed enough to have worked in various ministries (children, youth, young adult, women, worship) and am thankful for the leaders I've served with and the experiences I've had that have helped me become better at shepherding and leading others. However, the church is not my only mission-field.
My first "mission-field", if you will, is my family. God has entrusted me with 3 children (for now... maybe more in the future??? but don't get thinking anything... not a foreseeable future!) to lead, and a husband to submit to and partner with. And though we are far from perfect, and sometimes I feel we have more failures than successes, we are learning and growing and striving to be the people God wants us to be. We are a team. I love these people. And together we are a stronger force for good than we are on our own. We want to share God's love and "let our light shine" everywhere we go, bringing hope into seemingly-hopeless situations.
My next mission-field is the community around me. God opened doors and brought us to Phoenix. We've been here for almost four months now... wow! My role at Arise Church is that of a worship pastor. But it's not just about the music. It's about the community--the people. If I can help create an environment where people come in and feel the presence of God and encounter him in a powerful way, if somehow God working in me or through a song, or a word of encouragement can draw people closer to him or awaken something inside them, if people can get to the place of singing a song to Jesus with heartfelt-passion and conviction, then I feel I am on-mission. On-point. Doing what I'm called to do. But shepherding and leading people doesn't just happen during a Sunday morning gathering. It happens through relationships, through "doing life" with others, and truly striving to love them like Jesus does. What happens on Sundays is important. But what happens Monday-Saturday is just as important. And as I meet people here, sure, I'm inviting them in to Arise Church, but I want to be their friend as well. I want to share my story, and how God's love has changed me and propelled me to help others. I want to be a disciple-maker.
I am thankful God brought our family to Phoenix. There is a lot we like about being here, and much that God has blessed us with here! But it's not easy; in fact, some days are much harder than others. Helping start up a church and doing this mission work in Phoenix has caused us to give up many comforts... the comfort of family and friends nearby (we are really missing them!), the comfort of a steady paycheck that covered our expenses and allowed us to give and save, the comfort of a house with space for the kids to run around in all the luxuries and/or comforts that come with living in a house, the comfort of familiarity and knowing the community and area, etc.
HEAR THIS: Blessing does not equate to stuff! (That blog is coming soon... it's been brewing inside me.) Just because we are living with less and differently than we had planned does NOT mean we are not blessed. We are VERY blessed. Being uncomfortable may just be a good thing in some ways, and I believe God is showing us that.
A few weeks ago, we didn't know how we would pay for rent, buy groceries, or get by for another month. I wrote about it and shared our story, bluntly stating how broke we were. And as God always does, he provided our every need through His people. We are so thankful to all the people who gave a financial gift to help sustain us during this time. Wow. We are overwhelmed and humbled by the amount of people who reached out to us. However, out of that, only one family was able to commit to supporting us monthly. And though we are SO thankful for that support, we know that in another month or so, we will be back in the same spot. So if you are reading this, and feel compelled to be part of the solution and give on a monthly basis, I can walk you through the steps to make that happen. I know there's a lot of GOOD organizations out there to give to, and plenty of people who need help--even more than us--so as you open up your heart and your wallet, I want to encourage you to ask the Lord to direct you as you give.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for giving. Thank you for praying. Please continue to lift up our family in prayer, as well as the leaders and people of Arise Church, as we seek to do God's work in this community. May you serve well in the mission-field God has called you to!
God bless you,
Tori Walker
ToriWalker22@gmail.com
TO GIVE
Please write a check to "Arise Church" with the memo to "Matt and Tori Walker Support" to this address:
Arise Church
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
---OR---
You can give online with a credit/debit card by going to www.arisechurchaz.org and clicking on the "GIVE" tab. From there, you can select "Matt and Tori Walker Support" or "General" to give to the church.
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Our Financial Plea
Well, we are officially broke.
Hello friends and family! I pray you are well. Our family so misses the closeness of you all. We continue to lift you up and ask God to bless you and guide you in all that he has prepared for you to do for His Kingdom!
We continue to seek the Lord daily for wisdom and vision. Planting a church is a lot of work, and though rewarding in many ways, it is also very taxing and emotionally draining. Of course the enemy wants to destroy all that we’re doing, so we are holding tight to God’s word and His promises.
Our status? We are broke. And so here we are, asking God, what now? Are we doing what you want us to? Are we serving how you want us to? Are we stewarding all that we have well? What is it you want us to see in all this?
I am writing today to ask and plea for your help. As you may know, we are treating this ministry as missionary work, and are raising funds, at least until the church is self-sustaining. So financial support is crucial.
Since we moved here, we’ve had to live off of savings. Matt has been working for almost a month now, and is bringing home a paycheck and health insurance. However, that is not quite covering our expenses. Our savings (bank savings and checking accounts) will be depleted this weekend, once our end-of-month (April) bills have all come out. And so we ask our friends and family, “Can you help?” One-time donations are a blessing and so helpful, but we are hoping and praying to find a handful of month-to-month partners, who can promise a given amount on a monthly basis, so we know our expenses are covered. Those who are contributing may request a copy of our budget so you can see what our money goes to. It’s not a lavish or extreme lifestyle we are living. We have cut back in the ways we can, and right now are just trying to survive financially (which is also a big emotional stress). Our God is owner of it all, and continues to provide for us. We are doing what we can to seek additional work, and are asking those who are able to give, to do so to lighten our financial burden so we can focus on the ministry of Arise Church and the purpose that God has for us here.
You can give online by going to www.arisechurchaz.org/give and select the “Matt and Tori Walker Fund”, or send us a check to the address below.
Thank you for your support and your prayers!
Matt & Tori Walker
PO Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
"So whether you eat of drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV
"A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." - Proverbs 11:25 NIV
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." - Matthew 7:7 NIV
Things I've Learned About Phoenix!
I had a true desert moment today. I was driving along and looked ahead at what seemed to be a lake of water in the middle of the road... of course it was a desert mirage, and once I arrived at "the spot" it all disappeared!
Phoenix is a great city! It's the 5th largest city in the U.S. Yes, it's a desert. Yes, it's hot (although we haven't really gotten to REAL hot yet). Yes, it's also a city. Yes, it's growing.
We are still learning about cactuses, scorpions, and desert-life, but we are adapting pretty well. Here are a few things I've learned in the 3 months we've been here...
- As a family, we consume just over a bottle of sunscreen per month.
- Last week, we were in the pool everyday (pools are a blessing!).
- Always carry chap stick with you. We apply 3 times (or more) daily.
- A cooler in the back of your car is a common thing.
- We always have drinking water with us, wherever we go.
- It takes about 20 minutes to get just about anywhere.
- We love the parks here! Splash pads, fun equipment, shaded canopies, you get it.
- We get excited on the rare occasion that it rains! Although, monsoon season is approaching...
- A 75 degree day is a much appreciated "break" from the heat.
- We love our little RV park community. The staff are great, and there are finally some kids here now that the snowbirds have left.
- A black light will allow you to see the scorpions "glow" in the dark. It's so cool!
- Driving is messy. Busy. We know when not to get on the 101 or I-17.
- There actually is grass in some of the nicer areas, but most of what we see is "fake" grass.
- RV living is nice. It's simple. It's hard at times, but we are mostly enjoying it.
- Houses go "off" the market just about as soon as they go "on".
- AZ schools are very much in need of reform. #redfored
- AZ was voted the most pro-life state. The Phoenix House of Prayer has been praying for more reform from the government, for pregnant mamas, and for God to show us how we can take action. There's much more work to be done to end abortion, but now is the time to speak up and stand up.
- There are no (or little to no) mosquitos. (Hallelujah!)
- You can be in a nice neighborhood and drive a few blocks in any direction and suddenly be in a not-so-nice neighborhood, and vise-versa, even in Scottsdale! ;)
- In the first 2 months of living here, we met up with 7 Michigan families right here in AZ!
Thanks for reading. For fun facts on Phoenix, go here: https://www.visitphoenix.com/media/media-kit/fun-facts/
Tori
Phoenix is a great city! It's the 5th largest city in the U.S. Yes, it's a desert. Yes, it's hot (although we haven't really gotten to REAL hot yet). Yes, it's also a city. Yes, it's growing.
We are still learning about cactuses, scorpions, and desert-life, but we are adapting pretty well. Here are a few things I've learned in the 3 months we've been here...
- As a family, we consume just over a bottle of sunscreen per month.
- Last week, we were in the pool everyday (pools are a blessing!).
- Always carry chap stick with you. We apply 3 times (or more) daily.
- A cooler in the back of your car is a common thing.
- We always have drinking water with us, wherever we go.
- It takes about 20 minutes to get just about anywhere.
- We love the parks here! Splash pads, fun equipment, shaded canopies, you get it.
- We get excited on the rare occasion that it rains! Although, monsoon season is approaching...
- A 75 degree day is a much appreciated "break" from the heat.
- We love our little RV park community. The staff are great, and there are finally some kids here now that the snowbirds have left.
- A black light will allow you to see the scorpions "glow" in the dark. It's so cool!
- Driving is messy. Busy. We know when not to get on the 101 or I-17.
- There actually is grass in some of the nicer areas, but most of what we see is "fake" grass.
- RV living is nice. It's simple. It's hard at times, but we are mostly enjoying it.
- Houses go "off" the market just about as soon as they go "on".
- AZ schools are very much in need of reform. #redfored
- AZ was voted the most pro-life state. The Phoenix House of Prayer has been praying for more reform from the government, for pregnant mamas, and for God to show us how we can take action. There's much more work to be done to end abortion, but now is the time to speak up and stand up.
- There are no (or little to no) mosquitos. (Hallelujah!)
- You can be in a nice neighborhood and drive a few blocks in any direction and suddenly be in a not-so-nice neighborhood, and vise-versa, even in Scottsdale! ;)
- In the first 2 months of living here, we met up with 7 Michigan families right here in AZ!
Thanks for reading. For fun facts on Phoenix, go here: https://www.visitphoenix.com/media/media-kit/fun-facts/
Tori
Monday, April 2, 2018
Ministry at Arise
We have been here in Phoenix, Arizona for two months now! We have had 5 Sunday morning services, and have officially launched our weekly services as of Easter Sunday. We had a sports camp in March, and an egg hunt that brought in over 100 people! That's not all that's happening though. Things are going well and we are so thankful for all we've been able to experience so far. Even greater things are ahead!
Matt and I are starting to see some of the reason God has us right here, right now. We have encountered many people who are sick and are undergoing treatment. We've been able to pray for (and even with) these people. God has really opened doors for conversations about Him, his grace, and healing power. It has been so eye-opening to see the needs of these precious people, and know that it is our responsibility and privilege to pray for them. And we have seen God answer prayer! We pray, he answers. He is faithful and good!
Personally, it has been an adjustment for our family that is still in motion. Living in an RV without having planned to do that has been a big point of transition. Had we known we'd be in our camper for 2+ months, trust me, I would have packed differently (clothes, medicine, my curling rod!, etc.). Having almost 300 square feet for five active people poses a daily challenge, but thankfully we can get outside for more space. Matt has begun working (full time) for the Scottsdale Unified School System, overseeing their 5 theaters. He enjoys working there and we are thankful he got the job!
Even with the full time job, we are unable to make ends meet. So far we've been ok because we have been living off our savings for the past two months, but once that's gone, we won't be able to sustain ourselves. I have been job-searching, but with no car and needing to be with the kids, I am left with fewer options. We have enough money to get through this month. But we need to raise more funds.
This is where we need to let you know of our genuine need. We need to be able to pay our bills so that we can continue to serve the community and be a part of the Arise Church leadership team. We believe that everything we have is God's, and that the whole world is His. He has access to everything. He is Jehovah Jireh, our provider, and we trust in that as we submit ourselves to Him and His will. Please consider supporting us financially if you are able, and/or if you know someone looking for an opportunity to be a blessing and support the ministry we are doing, please send them this information as well.
Thank you for your prayers. Thank you to those who have given financially. You are a part of the ministry happening here & what we are doing here because of your support. We are ONE CHURCH, serving ONE GOD, loving ALL people!
To give financially, choose one of the following options:
- Go to arisechurchaz.org/give and choose "Matt and Tori Walker Fund"
- Send a check to
Matt or Tori Walker
P.O. Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
Like our Facebook page "Arise Church AZ" for more updates, stories, and pictures!
Matt and I are starting to see some of the reason God has us right here, right now. We have encountered many people who are sick and are undergoing treatment. We've been able to pray for (and even with) these people. God has really opened doors for conversations about Him, his grace, and healing power. It has been so eye-opening to see the needs of these precious people, and know that it is our responsibility and privilege to pray for them. And we have seen God answer prayer! We pray, he answers. He is faithful and good!
Personally, it has been an adjustment for our family that is still in motion. Living in an RV without having planned to do that has been a big point of transition. Had we known we'd be in our camper for 2+ months, trust me, I would have packed differently (clothes, medicine, my curling rod!, etc.). Having almost 300 square feet for five active people poses a daily challenge, but thankfully we can get outside for more space. Matt has begun working (full time) for the Scottsdale Unified School System, overseeing their 5 theaters. He enjoys working there and we are thankful he got the job!
Even with the full time job, we are unable to make ends meet. So far we've been ok because we have been living off our savings for the past two months, but once that's gone, we won't be able to sustain ourselves. I have been job-searching, but with no car and needing to be with the kids, I am left with fewer options. We have enough money to get through this month. But we need to raise more funds.
This is where we need to let you know of our genuine need. We need to be able to pay our bills so that we can continue to serve the community and be a part of the Arise Church leadership team. We believe that everything we have is God's, and that the whole world is His. He has access to everything. He is Jehovah Jireh, our provider, and we trust in that as we submit ourselves to Him and His will. Please consider supporting us financially if you are able, and/or if you know someone looking for an opportunity to be a blessing and support the ministry we are doing, please send them this information as well.
Thank you for your prayers. Thank you to those who have given financially. You are a part of the ministry happening here & what we are doing here because of your support. We are ONE CHURCH, serving ONE GOD, loving ALL people!
To give financially, choose one of the following options:
- Go to arisechurchaz.org/give and choose "Matt and Tori Walker Fund"
- Send a check to
Matt or Tori Walker
P.O. Box 1292
Sun City, AZ 85372
Like our Facebook page "Arise Church AZ" for more updates, stories, and pictures!
Monday, March 5, 2018
We're in Arizona!
Well, we did it. We moved to Arizona. That is something I never thought I'd say (or type, in this case). We are thankful for what we've experienced in the past month. God is good, always. He is our helper, provider, our friend, and so much more. We know we could not have done this without his leading, nor without the support of our friends and family. This is a genuine, heart-felt THANK YOU to everyone who prayed, gave financially, sent treats, and bid us farewell. Your generosity is a reflection of God's goodness and provision in our lives. THANK YOU!
The Move
It took us about a week to get from Kalamazoo to Phoenix. There were a few hiccups along the way, but nothing bad, thankfully! The kids travelled very well (mostly) and Matt drove the WHOLE trip! I had my important role of navigator and child-entertainer-discipliner. ;)
We stopped in Wichita to see extended Walker family. We stopped in Amarillo to stretch our legs at an RV park. It was so exciting to drive into Arizona, coming down from Flagstaff. We didn't know where we'd stay. We had been looking for several months, but found nothing suitable (or in some cases, even available). We spent our 1st night in Cracker Barrel in Phoenix. The next morning we drove to an RV park that we had already called & declined admission. However, because GOD goes before us and works ALL things for the good of those who love him, he made a way, and they let us come... but only for a week. Thank you all for praying. A week became 3 weeks. Then 3 weeks opened up to "as long as we need." PRAISE GOD! We're not in a house. We don't have our clothes (other than what we packed to travel in) or toys (stuff is in a local storage unit for now). We are still figuring things out. But we HAVE A PLACE TO STAY! God is just that good. We are trusting in His perfect timing for the rest as we continue to seek out, plan, and work toward the next step.
The Church
We have now had two Arise Church services! Our 3rd service is coming up this week. What an amazingly welcoming community we have walked into. Pastor Joe and Joy and their kindness, leadership, and friendship have meant a lot to us. Ethan, Jennifer, Jordyn, Tyler, Vivian, Megan, and Tiegan, and others have already become a bit like family to us. We are excited that these are the people we will be serving this community with. We had a women's luncheon last month and are anticipating a kids sports camp coming up in a couple weeks. Good opportunities to meet people and share the love of Jesus with them.
RV Living & Friends
It has been nice to learn to live with less. Some of the (older) people at the park aren't too friendly with the kids, but MOST of the people we've met have been super friendly. We met a family who had 5 kids around our kids ages, and the kids clicked so well. It was so nice to become friends with them! They loved biking and swimming in the park pool with them. They just left the RV park to head north (as they are doing this full time). I also reconnected with a high school friend staying in the same place (CRAZY, right?!?!). I think these are all God's way of helping us feel at home and making sure we have friends here. We have also met up with at least 3 families from Michigan who are here on vacation (Sanfords, Bosmas, & Joan VanderWoulde). So... anyone else want to come visit?!? We are looking forward to our family coming down here to visit in the very near future!
How to Pray
Matt is going to orientation tomorrow for a new job. Praise God for that! He may still have to pick up another job outside of that, but we're both willing to do whatever we need to do. Please pray that he gets paid well with this new job. Please pray for the things we are still figuring out, such as health insurance, making schooling official, family health and strength, wisdom & Holy Spirit vision as we plan & lead at Arise Church. We bought a mini van (similar to our previous one in MI). Pray that it makes it and keeps us safe! Funding... it's hard working part to full time for a church. It's mentally/spiritually and sometimes physically exhausting. Don't get me wrong... it's worth it. We love it. But it is hard work. Doing that AND working an outside job can be taxing. Please pray that we (and our team) don't get burnt out. Please pray for financial wisdom, stewardship, and blessing.
Giving
If you would like to give a monthly gift of any amount, or if you can make a one-time contribution, we would greatly appreciate it! Know that your support of us is supporting our ministry as well. It enables us to serve this community to the best of our ability. And of course, the less financial stress, the better. We thank you for whatever way you're able to give. Please go to arisechurchaz.org/give to make an online payment. Be sure to choose "Matt & Tori Walker Fund."
Thanks for keeping up with us. Thanks for the continued prayers. Thanks for your friendship and partnership. We pray for our friends and family as well and hope & pray you are a light and blessing wherever you are!
Love, The Walkers <3
The Move
It took us about a week to get from Kalamazoo to Phoenix. There were a few hiccups along the way, but nothing bad, thankfully! The kids travelled very well (mostly) and Matt drove the WHOLE trip! I had my important role of navigator and child-entertainer-discipliner. ;)
We stopped in Wichita to see extended Walker family. We stopped in Amarillo to stretch our legs at an RV park. It was so exciting to drive into Arizona, coming down from Flagstaff. We didn't know where we'd stay. We had been looking for several months, but found nothing suitable (or in some cases, even available). We spent our 1st night in Cracker Barrel in Phoenix. The next morning we drove to an RV park that we had already called & declined admission. However, because GOD goes before us and works ALL things for the good of those who love him, he made a way, and they let us come... but only for a week. Thank you all for praying. A week became 3 weeks. Then 3 weeks opened up to "as long as we need." PRAISE GOD! We're not in a house. We don't have our clothes (other than what we packed to travel in) or toys (stuff is in a local storage unit for now). We are still figuring things out. But we HAVE A PLACE TO STAY! God is just that good. We are trusting in His perfect timing for the rest as we continue to seek out, plan, and work toward the next step.
The Church
We have now had two Arise Church services! Our 3rd service is coming up this week. What an amazingly welcoming community we have walked into. Pastor Joe and Joy and their kindness, leadership, and friendship have meant a lot to us. Ethan, Jennifer, Jordyn, Tyler, Vivian, Megan, and Tiegan, and others have already become a bit like family to us. We are excited that these are the people we will be serving this community with. We had a women's luncheon last month and are anticipating a kids sports camp coming up in a couple weeks. Good opportunities to meet people and share the love of Jesus with them.
RV Living & Friends
It has been nice to learn to live with less. Some of the (older) people at the park aren't too friendly with the kids, but MOST of the people we've met have been super friendly. We met a family who had 5 kids around our kids ages, and the kids clicked so well. It was so nice to become friends with them! They loved biking and swimming in the park pool with them. They just left the RV park to head north (as they are doing this full time). I also reconnected with a high school friend staying in the same place (CRAZY, right?!?!). I think these are all God's way of helping us feel at home and making sure we have friends here. We have also met up with at least 3 families from Michigan who are here on vacation (Sanfords, Bosmas, & Joan VanderWoulde). So... anyone else want to come visit?!? We are looking forward to our family coming down here to visit in the very near future!
How to Pray
Matt is going to orientation tomorrow for a new job. Praise God for that! He may still have to pick up another job outside of that, but we're both willing to do whatever we need to do. Please pray that he gets paid well with this new job. Please pray for the things we are still figuring out, such as health insurance, making schooling official, family health and strength, wisdom & Holy Spirit vision as we plan & lead at Arise Church. We bought a mini van (similar to our previous one in MI). Pray that it makes it and keeps us safe! Funding... it's hard working part to full time for a church. It's mentally/spiritually and sometimes physically exhausting. Don't get me wrong... it's worth it. We love it. But it is hard work. Doing that AND working an outside job can be taxing. Please pray that we (and our team) don't get burnt out. Please pray for financial wisdom, stewardship, and blessing.
Giving
If you would like to give a monthly gift of any amount, or if you can make a one-time contribution, we would greatly appreciate it! Know that your support of us is supporting our ministry as well. It enables us to serve this community to the best of our ability. And of course, the less financial stress, the better. We thank you for whatever way you're able to give. Please go to arisechurchaz.org/give to make an online payment. Be sure to choose "Matt & Tori Walker Fund."
Thanks for keeping up with us. Thanks for the continued prayers. Thanks for your friendship and partnership. We pray for our friends and family as well and hope & pray you are a light and blessing wherever you are!
Love, The Walkers <3
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