Wicker Family Blog

Sarah Graduates!

2009-06-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad are so proud!
Our daughter, Sarah Virginia Wicker, graduated from Union University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology on May 23, 2009.
Sarah, as you all know, is an amazing young lady. She finished her degree in 4 years despite a transfer and change in majors. She spent the last 2 years working as a Resident Assistant for one of the dorms and working at Union Station. She was there when the wind blew strong (tornado), assisted in the clean-up/rebuilding, and encouraged many through the difficult days that followed. She has been a faithful member and servant in her church- Cornerstone Community Church, as well as being the best big sister in the world.
More than all that, Sarah loves her Lord and desires to serve Him with her all. To that end she has applied and been accepted into the Masters of Christian Counseling program at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. She is now spending her summer in Jackson, TN working as a nanny and plans to begin her studies at SWBTS in the Fall.
If you would like to send Sarah a note of congratulations her address is:
Sarah Wicker
123 Fairmont Street
Jackson, TN 38305

Phone – 870-736-0965
Email – misswicker@gmail.com

Thank you all for your prayers for our family over the past few years and please join with us in celebrating this mile-post in her and our lives.

S’Bogum
Tim and Lisa

We've Got News!

2009-03-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Family,

The following is a copy of a letter we mailed out to our colleagues today.

Dear Colleagues,
Greetings from Moscow!
It seems strange to be on this side of one of these letters, but here goes.
With much prayer and consideration and after 10 years serving with the IMB in Russia, we have come to the conclusion that our time here has come to an end. We will be going on a leave of absence starting April 15, when our current visas expire. There are many contributing factors to this decision, but in the end, we believe this is simply the next step of our lifelong journey following the lead of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We have been so blessed over these past years to work with some of the finest people on the planet. You have blessed us, ministered to us and helped us grow in our faith and we will treasure the memories we have made with so many of you. Please know that we will keep you, your families and your ministries in our prayers.
We look forward to being back in North Arkansas for a while, living with and helping Tim’s mom and dad. We are excited about being closer to family for the next couple of months and are looking forward to Caleb coming home at the end of May when we can all celebrate Sarah’s graduation from Union University. After that, only the Lord knows.
We sincerely love you all and wish you God’s very best.
S’Bogum!
The Wickers
Tim, Lisa, Rachel and Tessa

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

We had to celebrate Valentine's Day a day early - Tim leaves in the morning of the 14th to the largest city North of the Arctic Circle. (in February?)

We went to TGIFs and enjoyed walking through the mall and just hanging out.

Home to bake cookies and watch a movie.

Love - Love - Love is in the air!

S'Bogum

Tim for the fam

It's Not Fair

2009-02-08T04:45:00.000-08:00

I know, not words a grown-up should be using about his daughter.

But that's how I feel.

At the invitation of a friend from school, Rachel spent this past week in London.

Her friend and family had to leave Russia for new visas, they invited and paid for Rachel to join them. Lucky . . .

Anyway, she is back now with stories and pictures and memories, and yes, I am jealous.

Above are a couple of her pics . . .

Glad to have her home,

but again - not fair!

S'Bogum

Tim for the gang

In Udmurtia

2009-01-30T10:40:00.000-08:00

Tim, Marc and Jimmy made it to Udmurtia today.
Jack and Mark, pastors from Arkansas came in a couple of days ago to do a seminar on spiritual gifts. Tonight was the first session.
Both men did a great job.
Jack was even introduced as the "Bishop of Arkansas" - guess he was promoted since we left Arkansas last summer.
We are here helping some, but mainly trying to get some video and pics for a piece on their ongoing partnership with the churches here.
God is using partners like these guys all over the country of Russia.
You don't even have to be a "Bishop" to help lead one.
S'Bogum for now
Tim

Tim and Pastor Sergei

2009-01-20T22:17:00.000-08:00

Had a good day yesterday.
Met with the Senior Pastor and learned a lot about the Khanti and what God is doing among them.
Plans were made for the week.
Did a little night time sightseeing in Surgut.
Right now it is minus 30 F outside.
We are getting ready to head to the Surgut Museum of Local Lore to learn more about the history of the Khanti people.
Thanks for praying for us on the trip and the family back in Moscow.
S'Bogum
Tim

(pictured Tim and Pastor Sergei)

Tim to Surgut

2009-01-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

Pull out a map - find Surgut, Russia.
Hint - East of the Ural Mountains, Northwest Siberia.
Oil fields, gas fields, and frozen tundra.
Tim is headed there with Marc and Jimmy this evening to see about a partnership with the Russian Baptist church there working with the Khanti people group.
Please pray for Lisa and the girls while Tim is gone.
Pray for a safe trip for Tim and the team.
And
Follow the progress of the trip (if we have internet connection!) at:
www.engagerussia.blogspot.com
www.engagerussia.org
S'Bogum
Tim for the gang

Happy Birthday Tessa!

2009-01-14T06:49:00.001-08:00

Tessa turns 13!
Our youngest is now a teenager.
She is such a joy to have around.
She is growing up so gracefully and is full of life and fun.
Mom and Dad could not be more proud!
Here she is on her b-day and with her BFF Ali.

Cool Night Out

2009-01-09T10:22:00.000-08:00

A night or two before Caleb had to leave - one last trip to Red Square.
Winter has finally settled in, it has been running in the teens Fahrenheit the past couple of weeks. For the most part we holed up, watched movies, tv, played games, and just enjoyed the warmth.
Winter break is just about over for the kids. We aren't mentioning the "s" word just yet, still the weekend to go.
The Engage Russia initiative is gaining momentum. Our team has expanded to Tim, Marc, Sarah D (doing research), and Jimmy B (photographer).
Keep an eye on www.engagerussia.org - right now it is sending you to a blog, but soon and very soon it will be a full-fledged website with videos and prayer guides to download and use in your church. More later . . .
Enjoy the weather, whatever it is - - -

New Years Eve 2009

2009-01-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve 2009 - Red Square.
It was a little insane.
We got there about 11:40 PM.
Red Square had been closed off for a long time.
So we hung out with the THOUSANDS of other unfortunates on the streets outside of the Kremlin/Ohotni Ryad, downtown Moscow.
Enjoy the short clip!
Happy New Year!

Long Time No Post

2008-12-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

Greetings all - hope you had a Merry Christmas!
Sorry not to have written more the last few days, but I am guessing you all have been busy with the holidays, as well.
We had a good Christmas - with a little bit of snow - so it was technically a White Christmas.
It is good having Caleb around for a few days. Been watching a lot of movies, eating a lot of food, doing a little work, playing some games, and for the most part just enjoying the gang - minus Sarah - sniff sniff.
Because of a picture or two on the last post - 2008 Wicker Year in Pics - posting any pictures of the girls without their prior permission has been forbidden - Ha! Censorship, not always a bad thing, not always a good thing.
Anyway, here are a couple of pre-approved photos from the holidays.
We love and miss you all
S'Bogum
Tim for the gang

Wicker 2008 Year in Pictures

2008-12-18T20:49:00.000-08:00

Click on the off-centered slide show on the right and see some of our favorite 2008 family pics.
Or check them out on our Facebook (Tim Wicker) page.
More soon . . .
S'Bogum
Tim

High Priest of Hinkson

2008-12-12T23:38:00.000-08:00

No, you have not traveled back in time to ancient Israel!

For their Bible project this year, Rachel and her friend Amanda made this High Priest outfit.
Rach and Amanda worked long and hard and the results are amazing.
Mr. Clarke, long-time Bible teacher at Hinkson, said that it was the BEST Bible project ever, and the only project that he ever wanted to keep and use in the future.
Not only did the girls learn about the High Priest, his role and function, they also learned how to use a sewing machine.

We are so proud!

Chuvash Videos

2008-12-06T00:41:00.000-08:00

It's that time again for Southern Baptists - LMCO - or Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
This annual offering for international missions allows us and more than 5000 others to serve the Lord throughout the world.

This week has been a busy one. Marc Hooks and I have been trying to get some video promotion pieces ready for you and your churches to use as you pray and give and think about joining us in the work overseas.

We got a lot done and the fruit of our labor can be seen at www.engagerussia.org
There you can see some of the videos on the Chuvash People of Russia.
There you can follow the links to download these videos and handouts for use in your churches.
There you can learn more about how to join us as we seek to Engage Russia with the Good News.

Even if you don't plan to use them in your churches, I would encourage you to check this site out, watch the videos and pray together with us for the work among the Chuvash people. The site is brand new and under constant revision - so bookmark it and follow along.

Today is Saturday, a day off, a day planned with the family - glad for it -
S'Bogum
Tim
(here's a sneak peak)

Trimming the Tree

2008-11-30T10:46:00.000-08:00

On Thanksgiving weekend it is our family tradition to trim the Christmas tree.
Yesterday, Rachel and I went through the balcony looking for all the boxes labeled 'Christmas'.
Lisa and Tess began the traditional baking of the peanut butter 'Kissy' cookies (no real Hershey Kisses this year - so a substitute was found).
With the tree finally put together and the boxes emptied - we began testing the lights. Two years without use did not do the lights any good. 3 of our 5 sets did not work. Since we always put the lights on first, and since it was already fairly late on Saturday evening - the tree trimming had to be delayed until today - Sunday afternoon - after a trip to 'Nash' to pick up more lights.
Every thing was set to the side and we decided to spend the evening playing Clue instead (for the 3rd time this weekend!).

Today we got our act together.
The tree is now trimmed.
The cookies were baked and eaten (and they were yummy!).
We watched the movie 'Elf'.

And now we are looking forward to the week.
I am thankful for Thanksgiving - for the time it gave us as a family to hang out - to play - to relax - to sing - to laugh - and to pray.

God is Good . . .

Don't Forget Lottie Moon

2008-11-28T23:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T08:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving at the Tarletons -

Thank you Lord for our family and good friends -

God is Good -
All the Time -

Volunteers Make a Difference!

2008-11-23T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today we visited one of the 3 Baptist churches here in the capital of Chuvashia.
The church was filled with young people, the music was lively, there was one sermon and 3 testimonies. There were Russians, Chuvash, Tatars, Mari, Mordovan, Udmurt, Mexicans and Americans all worshiping together in that one small rented room. God is Good . . .

During the testimony time two of the guys who spoke talked about critical moments in their journeys to Christ.
One said it was an American volunteer who visited him in a Rehab center in Udmurtia, that shared his testimony which the Lord used to bring conviction on his heart. That American volunteer later asked him if he could pray for him and later that evening the young Tatar drug addict prayed to receive Christ. As he began to grow in Christ and as he was contemplating his future, he was invited to a seminar about working in Rehab centers, but he could not afford to go. He prayed that if that is how God wanted him to serve, then God would have to provide the way, otherwise he would go back into secular work. The next day an American volunteer visiting the center, not knowing anything about this, gave him $100 - because the Lord just laid it on his heart.

Another testified that an American volunteer, who came to help with an evangelistic outreach, saw him standing alone in the back corner of the meeting and approached him when no one else would. This volunteer asked how he could pray for him. That led to a conversation, to an introduction to the local pastor and to his salvation.

Both these guys gave praise and thanks to God for sending folks just like you guys to make a difference in peoples lives. Both these guys are now serving the Lord full-time by beginning a Rehab center here in Chuvashia!

I know that sometimes we wonder if all of the money, time, and energy spent is really worth it.
YES YES YES - We Make a Difference -
We plant seeds, we water, and sometimes - sometimes we get the Glorious privilege of seeing the harvest.
Thank you guys for Making a Difference in Russia
S'Bogum
Tim

A Real Momma Chuvash

2008-11-22T11:40:00.000-08:00

Marc and I had a great day outside of the capital city, in a smaller town and village.
We had a very insightful Chuvash culture lesson from Sergei's old Chuvash teacher in the town of Krasnoarmeiskoye (Red Army) or 'Trakye" (in Chuvash).
We learned the Chuvash words for:
hello - 'Salam'
goodbye - 'Chebir-yull'
and thank you - 'Tauvta push'.
We also learned why the Chuvash believe that if their good works outweigh their bad deeds then they can earn their way to heaven.
After a quick fix on the car, we went to visit Sergei's home in the village. (Sergei is a student in Moscow who attends Marc's English Club and is native Chuvash).
The rest of the evening was filled with a display of Chuvash traditional costume, duck and dumpling soup (man, that was good!), and a good ole Chuvash version of the banya!
It just doesn't get any better than that!
Pictured is Sergei's mom Tatyana in her Chuvash engagement dress, and some duck and dumpling soup.
S'Bogum
Tim

Tim in Chuvashia

2008-11-21T08:41:00.001-08:00

Tim and partner Marc are doing what they do in Chuvashia.
The Chuvash are the largest non-muslim people group (besides the Russians) in all of Russia.
Nearly 2 million.
Right now there are only 7 Baptist churches in the whole region. Only one of them uses the Chuvash language in part of their services.
There is NO native Chuvash church!
Unbelievable!
We are here gathering information, taking pictures and video, doing interviews and visiting cities and villages trying to understand more about how we can help reach the Chuvash with the Gospel.
In the next few days and weeks I will send you links to websites about these people and other places in Russia.
For now these pics must do - Momma Chuvash - and my impersonation of Momma Chuvash.
S'Bogum
Tim

Rachel at Belle Notte

2008-11-15T06:34:00.000-08:00

Belle Notte - Hinkson Christian Academy
This year's theme?
"Sounds of Freedom"

Rachel's first choir concert at HCA was a huge success. She was beautiful and sang like a song-bird. (yes - her parents are proud!)

Part of something Big

2008-11-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening we had 4 different guys over for dinner. All are now missionaries, with their families, in some way, shape or form. All of us have been involved in ministry in Russia for several years (total 45 years or more together).
The discussion went from topic to topic, but it was all about reaching the lost with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
As we were closing with a word of prayer, I became overwhelmed with a thought - literally tens of thousands of people have heard the Gospel as a result of these guy's collective ministries! Only the Lord knows exactly, but hundreds, if not thousands, will be in heaven because these men heard the call of the Lord to join Him in reaching Russia, and were obedient to that call.
Everyone here came from a different walk of like - a former bank executive, a carpenter, a school teacher, a journalist, welder and a homemaker. Not quite the 12 apostles, but in a way - yeah - just ordinary people that heard the call and responded.
How cool it is to be a part of something that Big.
S'Bogum
Tim for the gang

Home for a Whole Week!

2008-11-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

Life is busy - life can be crazy - but it is all good
Since our last post, I spent a week in Prague, a couple of days at the "office" and a whole day just hanging around the house. My favorite was the whole day just hanging around the house.
I am now looking forward to a whole week of being home before my next trip.
Yeah, I have a lot to do - emails to write, blogs to post, VSCs to visit with, two manuals to work on, research to do on another unreached people group here in Russia - but all from home.
For me, for now, that is good.
Talked to Caleb - sounds like he finally got a job - whoa hoo - look out Toys R Us!
Grandma sent him a care package - I know he is looking forward to a taste from home.
Sarah is sky-diving today - I am soooo jealous! She is one busy girl - and it sounds like the Lord has given her some direction for life after college - I will let her share but gotta say that we are some kinda proud!
Tessa had a sleepover last night saying goodbye to a friend moving back to Australia.
Rach went to the Kremlin Theater for a Romeo and Juliet ballet this week and her school choir has a concert this Friday.
Lisa starts a new Bible study with some ladies from our mission this Wednesday. She is looking forward to that.
I guess that is all for now.
Just wanted to touch base - good to be home
S'Bogum
Tim

Wicker Flop House

2008-11-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

On our return to Russia we moved into a new apartment. Our new place is not located far from where we used to live, and is a little closer to a Metro. Our apartment is quite a bit easier to visit for those traveling through Moscow.

Because of this we have been able to get together with several of our VSCs, volunteers and just friends as they pass through town. We've had several over for dinner and even more spend the night. The last group had some problems with hotel reservations - so we just spread them out all over the couches and floor. There was quite a chorus of snoring going on as Maurice, Mark, Kevin, Jon and Gary all occupied the same small space.

Billy, one of our VSCs, calls us the Wicker Flop House.

I kinda like that -
(of course I did not have to do all the sheets after the guys left!)

Next time you are coming through town - whether with a volunteer team, as a VSC or as a friend, please look us up - and if need be - we might even let you flop!

S'Bogum
Tim for the gang

Quick Trip to Udmurtia

2008-10-27T04:23:00.001-07:00

(Katya - Rachel - Sara Beth - Sveta)
Rachel and I just got back from a quick trip to Udmurtia.
There was a volunteer team coming through to Udmurtia from Arkansas - there was a need for some introductions - some need for videos and pictures and interviews - and some meetings - so we took the team and headed out.
We were able to visit some old friends (both from Udmurtia and with the team) and we were able to make some new ones.
We had some great - very productive meetings with Sasha, Valodia, Kostia, Jack and myself. God is as work and it is so exciting to sit down with these guys and hammer out concrete ways to be a part of that.
Rachel went to Udmurtia for the first time with me and just loved it. She, and Sara Beth (another IMB MK) helped with an English club out in one of the villages. They met two Russia/Udmurt teenagers and talked - in English and in Russian. They invited the girls to church the next day and both the girls came (for the first time ever!). After church the girls went to one of the church members home and went online and looked at their facebook pages.
Please pray for Sveta and Katya - that the contact/testimony of our 2 MKs will stick with them. Pray that they will come back to church and be drawn to the Father.
S'Bogum for now
Tim

Udmurt Team #2 hard at work

2008-10-27T04:18:00.001-07:00

Pray for Jon, Katy, Mark, Kevin, Jack, Cathy, Maurice and Gary as they minister in Udmurtia this week. They are visiting homes, churches, with people on the street - everywhere they go sharing Jesus!

VOcational and VAcational Missionaries

2008-10-21T04:22:00.000-07:00

We all understand what a Vocational missionary is - these are the people who, as a vocation - job - do missions. They move to another country, learn a new language and culture, and seek to share the Gospel in a way that people will become saved and a part of the Kingdom of God. These are the full-time RLMs (real live missionaries). We, the Wickers, are vocational missionaries. We live in Russia with the goal and purpose of helping Russians, and other nationalities who live here, find Hope and eternal life in Christ.

But are you familiar with "Vacational" missionaries? I Googled the term the other day and found a lot of places where non-native English speakers have misspelled the word 'vocational', but that was about it. "Vacational" missionaries are those who have other jobs (day jobs), but do missions for the same reasons and with the same goals as vocational missionaries. The only difference being the amount of time they are able to devote to it. In other words, these are people who spend their weekends, days off, spare time, and 'vacation' time from work and do missions. Most of the time, they receive nothing financially for their time and effort, rather they support themselves and the projects they are involved in. In other words, they don't get paid to do missions (like the vocational missy), they PAY to do missions. They give of their time and their resources in order to advance the Kingdom of God in another place, culture and language.

We not only have the great privilege of being one of your vocational missionary families - but we also have the joy of working with many 'Vacational' missionaries as well. Last week we were with three 'Vacational' missionary teams as they came through Moscow. This week we will be joining with one of these teams on a trip to Udmurtia.

The Lord has called us all to be about the advance of the Kingdom to all the world. Whether we are called to sell our homes, leave our friends and families in order to live overseas, OR whether we are called to stay at home and work, and participate in the Great Commission on a vacational basis - we are all in this together.

What are you doing for your next vacation?

Vocationally yours-
Tim

We Got It!

2008-10-17T22:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we finally got our long term registration and visa extension.
What does that mean?
It means we can stay in the country until at least April 14, 2009.
It means we can travel inside the country, outside of Moscow.
It means we can leave the country and return to Moscow without any problems.

Thanks for praying with us about this.
Because we now have this status, I can now join the 2nd Udmurt Vol. Team trip this next week.
As a matter of fact, Rachel is going to join the trip also. We cannot stay the whole time, because of school and other things. But we are excited to get to ride the train with the team, to be back in Udmurtia for a couple of days, and to help minister face to face with the Udmurts.
We are looking forward to being with Pastor Mark, Kevin and Katie from our home church New Hope, and the other team members as well - Mo (as in Maurice), Cathy, Jon and Bill.
We bought our train tickets yesterday and will be in the same wagon.

Follow the news of the first team and then the second team at - http://udmurtvsc.blogspot.com

S'Bogum for now
Tim

Progress - - -

2008-10-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

I was Red Square today with a vol. team from AR.
We took pictures, watched the changing of the guard, ate at the underground mall, the whole tourist thing.
But standing in Red Square, as the team was touring St. Basils Cathedral, I could not help but just reflect on how much has changed - even in the last 10 years (since we have been in Russia), not to mention the last 20 years.
Progress in capitalism (good and bad), progress in ease of life (good), progress in so many ways.
Before I met the team this morning, I met with Ed, my boss. The conversation went several ways, but progress - progress in the Gospel going out - Yeah - that's a good thing and that IS happening.
Life is not always easy here. Results are sometimes hard to measure.
But in the long run - the big picture is becoming clear - God IS at work - the Gospel IS going out - and yes - we - (ALL of us) - are making a difference - for the sake of the Kingdom.
God is good . . .
And all the time . . .
S'Bogum
Tim

one thing a day

2008-10-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

When we first moved to Russia, someone told us "consider it a good day when you can get one thing done!"

Well, yesterday was not so hot, but Today was a good day!

I spent a good part of the day yesterday trying to put together a computer from the parts we had from 2 older computers. Problem after problem culminated in a rather frustrated RLM.

Today, I went out and bought MORE parts (still cheaper than a new computer - I think). Got everything home, started putting it together, loaded the operating system, and IT WORKED!
Today was a good day.

Of course, we got more done than just that - some groceries bought, some prep done for the group coming tonight, the one coming Thursday, and yes, the group coming Friday.
We are staying busy - and - slowly but surely, getting things done.

3 VSCs (folks Tim is working with) in country right now and God is clearly at work.
People getting saved, churches being started, and ministries opening up.
Can't go into a lot of detail, but it is exciting to be a part of what He is doing.

Check out http://udmurtvsc.blogspot.com for an update from one of our VSCs.

Living the Dream
Tim for the fam

Missin' da Bird

2008-10-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

This weekend is our home town Yellville's annual celebration paying homage to the beloved Turkey.
"Turkey Trot"
Thousands of people fill the streets for the parade, music, crafts, games and to visit the myriad of booths hosting wares from all over the county.
There are contests including Miss Turkey Trot, not to be confused by Miss Drumsticks, a rodeo (also not to be confused with Miss Drumsticks), and of course, the National Wild Turkey Calling Contest.
There is the community wide Turkey dinner and all sorts of other interesting fair type foods, including Turkey Drumsticks, home made root beer, funnel cakes and nachos.

But the highlight of this annual Turkey focused extravaganza is the "Turkey drop."
This is not an organization sanctioned event. There is no listing for it on the schedule of events.
BUT 4 or 5 times during the two day event, a mysterious airplane flies low over the town square - a side door opens - and out flies a live turkey (or 2 or 3). The turkey usually flaps for a second or two before getting it's bearings, then settles into a smooth glide down to the mass of humanity waiting below.
The square temporarily becomes chaotic as children, teens, and even a good number of grown-ups chase the turkey down. The captor earns him/herself the admiration of all, a picture or two in the local paper, and finally, a Thanksgiving meal.
(I am proud to say that I had my 15 minutes of Turkey Trot fame while a Freshman in High School - and yes the picture to prove it.)

Sarah is there in Yellville today - enjoying being with the family and the events.
We are not.
Yes, we are a little down today - thinking of family, the food and the Kamakazi turkeys.
But that's okay - we have memories from last year and pictures to remember the good times.

I have tried to explain Turkey Trot to some Russians. They just don't get it - go figure!

S'Bogum and missin' da bird
Tim for the Wickers

Strategy Day

2008-10-09T07:02:00.000-07:00

Billy Arnold, VSC for Bryansk is passing through Moscow on his way to Bryansk (spending a couple of nights with us).

I spent most of the day today in meetings with Ed and Billy.
We talked over breakfast, which led to lunch.
We talked over lunch, which led to tea.
We talked, and prayed over tea, which led to evening.
We are now back at the house.
Great day.
God is at work and therefore, the enemy is frustrated.
But what a blast it is to be able to think, pray, discuss, brainstorm, and seek His direction for life and ministry in Russia.
God is doing some amazing things - and it is exciting to be a part of it.
He has brought together some of the neatest people - and it is very humbling to be able to work with them.
Thanks for praying - thanks for being a part of what He is doing - and thanks for letting us be a part of what He is doing here.
S'Bogum
Tim

Udmurt Team #1 To and Thru Moscow

2008-10-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Lisa and I had the great privilege of meeting the 1st of the 2 vol. teams going to Udmurtia this month. Jack, Sara, Nellie, Suzie, Bob, JoAnn and James arrived just fine, with all of their luggage.
We were able to spend the day with them coming in from the airport, to the train station to unload their bags, to lunch and then back to the train station for the send off.
I was hoping to go with the team, but because of registration issues, I cannot leave Moscow, yet. Lord willing I will be able to go with the 2nd team.
The team will spend the next 10 days or so doing cultural exchange evangelism in the homes of believers their in Udmurtia. The local believers are inviting their lost friends and relatives to their homes to meet and visit with the Americans. They will be leading the conversations which will include questions about faith.
Pray that the Lord would use EACH of these team members for the sake of the Kingdom.
Pray for their safety and health.
Pray for His will to be done.
Thanks for being a part of what the Lord does with this team through your prayers (Rom 15:30)
Living the Dream!
Tim

PS - Follow their trip at - http://udmurtvsc.blogspot.com

Fly-Fishing For Souls?

2008-10-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

Duane Hada, a deacon in our church, taught me to fly-fish this past year on our Stateside Assignment. He even gave me a bunch of equipment - with one catch (no pun intended) - the stuff was to be used as a tool for reaching people.
I saw online yesterday that there was a big Hunting and Fishing Expo on the north side of town.
I went in hopes of finding a fly-fishing store or group or whatever.
Of the hundreds of displays, I found ONE store representing fly-fishing. So I talked to the guys there and found out about their store. I asked about a fly-fishing Club, and they told me about one. I got all excited until I asked what they do. "Drink and Lie about their fishing adventures," was their answer. Sounds like a bunch of Ruskie good ole boys. I asked about clinics, or seminars, or whatever. The more we talked the more open they became. In the end they invited me to visit their store. In November they will be starting some 3 week fly-tying classes - stuff you can do in the Winter.
Pray that this will be the first step in relationships that will eventually bring some into the Kingdom.
Duane - thanks for the foot in the door!

Living the Dream
Tim for the Wickers

Apartment Bldg Pics

2008-10-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

6th floor right above the arrow sign pointing the way!

The tall narrow brick building - 6th floor - that's our new home. (Rachel in foreground)

Ya Can't Take It With Ya

2008-10-03T23:21:00.000-07:00

Well - we moved all of our stuff -

It is amazing how much stuff you can accumulate over the course of 9 years. I bet we have 20 boxes, just labeled "Stuff"!

Because of the need for another family to move into our old apartment while we were still in the states, because our new apartment was still occupied until this past week, and because we don't have any real storage places here, our belongings were moved and scattered to 5 different apartments.

Wednesday was all about collecting the stuff from one place, taking it down the stairs, loading it in a truck, taking to the new place, stacking by the elevator, loading it on the elevator, stacking outside of the elevator, moving it into our new apartment - anywhere in the new apartment. Then - doing it all again -

The last 2 days have been all about unpacking, putting furniture together, figuring what is going to go where, and throwing out (or giving away) what we don't need or what won't fit. We have downsized a bit.

Moving on the mission field is not a whole lot different than moving in the states. Lots of work, sore backs, but also a little bit fun in an 'all things new' kinda way.

The Lord is in control and has a reason for it all. We are in His able hands - looking forward to what He has and wants to do.

All in all, I can't help but smile when I think about the old saying -
"You can't take it with you" -
Very, very comforting right now -

Living the Dream!
Tim for the weary Wickers

Makin' da move

2008-09-29T21:49:00.001-07:00

Looks like we have some concrete plans for the move!!!!
That does not mean it will happen, of course, but at least we have something to work towards.
Our new apartment is now almost empty, we meet the landlord today.
Lisa and I clean this evening and tomorrow, and begin to set up some of our stuff (some of our furniture has already been moved).
Wednesday - we clean and set up some more.
Thursday we move the rest of our stuff in a van, (the rest of our stuff is now in 4 different apartments across the city).
Hopefully we will be able to get the internet set up today or tomorrow. We will feel a whole lot more like we live here when we can unpack our suitcases and spread out a little bit.
We not only moved back to the field - back to our old place - but we are MOVING, with all that entails.
Lord willing, by the end of the week, we will be settled.
Pray for the move - pray for Tessa (running a fever for the 3rd day now) - pray for the upcoming vol. teams coming to Udmurtia - and here is a new one - Pray for the Chuvash People of Russia (more on that later!)
Living the Dream!
Tim for the Wickers

Rea Valley in Russia

2008-09-28T23:44:00.001-07:00

Sitting in church yesterday and what do I see?
Rea Valley Baptist's name on a Tee (shirt that is)

Kostia and Zhyena in from Udmurtia
Wearing a shirt - a gift from one of ya (Jack that is)

The singing was great and so was the sermon
But hanging with old friends - well it doesn't get any better than that (sorry no rhyme)

Good day - hope to move to our new apartment this week - keep praying!!!

Living the Dream!
Tim for the gang

And thanks Caleb for the little video ditty!

summer memory.

2008-09-28T02:59:00.000-07:00

hello family and friends. i found this memory on my computer. enjoy.
also, i am doing well. project are piling up, nights are getting longer.

peace and love.

caleb

Praise God for the Weekend!

2008-09-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

Good first week back in Russia -
-Got the kiddos back in school
-Met with Ed (twice) about moving forward on some new cities and People Groups (very exciting!)
-Got over jet-lag (or at least the worst of it)
-Renewed some old friendships and made some new
-Finished a couple of papers for my latest DMin seminar
-Got to see our new apartment (we hope to be moving early next week - can't wait to be out of temporary housing!)

Coming up this next week?
-The move - please pray as we seek to get settled into the new place - lots of changes
-Another meeting planning out the next couple of months (3 trips in the works now)
-Church tomorrow - please pray that the Lord would give clarity as to where he would have us worship and serve over the next few months and years

Living the Dream!
Tim for the family

Girls on the way to school and Tim's 'office'

2008-09-25T00:44:00.000-07:00

I found my card reader!
Fall is a beautiful time of year - the sun is shining, the temperature cool, the smog seems to be blown away in the breeze. We are going to try and enjoy the weather while we can - snow is on it's way!

Jet lag and new/old foods -

2008-09-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

Jet lag and new/old foods = tired people with belly aches.
That really does not sum up the past couple of days, but we have had plenty of both!
The girls are settled back into school - old friends welcoming, new kids checking them out.
Lisa has the temporary apartment spic and span and organized so that we can now find the stuff we need - temporarily.
I have more meetings today to plan and prepare for the next few weeks and months. Some exciting things happening.
Lisa and I are headed out in a little bit to check out our new apartment. Some of our belongings have been moved already into one of the rooms. The rest we will be moving next week. Looks like we can actually move in next Monday or Tuesday.
I have taken pictures of the girls on the way to school and of my temporary office (the local Coffee House - coffee, 3 dollars - internet, 2 dollars - chance to connect with the world?, priceless). But - can't find my card reader for the computer - so can't download and then upload any pictures yet - sorry. Will soon -
Thanks again for joining us in the journey -
Pray for our move and all the stuff that goes with it.
S'Bogum
Tim for the Wickers

Family, friends and new acquaintances -

2008-09-21T04:22:00.000-07:00

Family, friends and new acquaintances - relationships are what it is all about.
It is good to be back and renew friendships and relationships. It feels so good to be welcomed back so warmly by our IMB colleagues, Russian partners, and school friends.
Tessa is hanging with her BFF Allie even as I type. Rach is on her way to visit with Alexa. Lisa spent much of yesterday with fellow IMB gals and I have been able to talk with both Russian and IMB friends and partners.
In addition I made a new friend yesterday - Marak. Marak helped me get my old phone up and running and helped us get a phone for Tessa and new phone cards for Rach and Lisa. I deliberately made 3 different trips to do each of these tasks. Marak speaks some English and wanted to practice. I spoke in Russian and he spoke in English. At the end of the evening when I went to get Rachel from her youth meeting, I even saw and talked to Marak in the Metro. Coincidence? I don't think so.
Pray for Marak - pray that I get a chance to talk with him more and share Christ with him.
Pray for sleep.
Thanks for being a part of our ministry.
S'Bogum
Tim for the Wickers

Ministry from the Ozarks to the world. . .

2008-09-20T15:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to White River Baptist Association in Arkansas for loaning us this 'cool' van to come home in last year and to go back to the work in this year. If you ever wonder what some of that cooperative money goes to, here's one example; a nice comfortable van with enough seating that we got to stretch out and nap on the way to the airport. When you have a lot to carry it's great to have a 'family' to help. Paul and Barnabus would have loved it.

We Made It!

2008-09-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings all from Moscow, Russia.
The Wicker family made it safe and sound.
It was a long trip - we were welcomed with long lines and lost luggage but we did not let the lack of love linger long - (sorry - still tired).
Our bags made it to our apartment in just a couple of hours - so really no big deal.
We are staying in a temporary apartment for the next two weeks. We will have limited internet, but will try to check our email daily at the local TGI Fridays.
Lisa is out grocery shopping now with a couple of our missy friends (who have a car) PTL.
Rachel is gone to a school youth night. Tessa and I are out running errands - including updating the blog.
We love you all and thank you for being with us in this next chapter in our ministry.
S'Bogum
Tim for the Wickers
(and thanks Jack for the last post - good words and a good picture)

2008-09-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

Good by Yellville. . . hello Moscow; here we come again!!!

It's hard to believe that over a year has gone by since they got off the plane at Little Rock, ready to be 'home in Yellville' for awhile. But, the 'while' has vanished among many other things. One thing remains though, just like the Bible says. . . "the greatest of these is love". That is stronger now than a year ago. The send off prayer of Bob Wicker, Tim's dad, echoed the heart of the call that is on the lives of this special family. The family may be geographically separated, but not in the heart. They are very together in their hearts because of that love.

Continue to pray that God's plan will be fulfilled as they work and minister together from various parts of the globe to add more details into God's incredible painting of His 'family' portrait.

Send off fishing trip

2008-09-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

Pastor Mark - on fish, Missy Tim - on fish, Deacon Duane - on camera and commentary.

Floating with the Fam - Buffalo River

2008-07-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

Hiking with the fam at Hemmed in Hollow

2008-07-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

Camping with the guys

2008-07-19T18:45:00.001-07:00

Oh yeah

2008-07-19T18:36:00.000-07:00

Tim and one of his MANY smallmouth caught on his new flyrod this summer

Tessa and Henry

2008-07-19T18:34:00.001-07:00

Gassville Tornado Aftermath

2008-02-08T12:36:00.000-08:00

Driving through Gassville the day after the Tornado hit - Feb 6, 2007

Forgot to turn the radio off - sorry

Union University Aftermath 3

2008-02-08T12:17:00.000-08:00

Final short clip at UU - -

Union University Aftermath 2

2008-02-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

Another short drive by - -

Union University Aftermath 1

2008-02-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

Driving by the campus - could not get on to meet Sarah - Caught up with her off campus.