Michael has been part of CIAM since its start over 20 years ago. He provides servant leadership for CIAM Media together with an amazingly talented and dedicated group of people, who have a common vision and goal to reach out with the Good News here at home and around the world. Please join Michael and his family in their faith journey as they serve the Lord with Canada’s Indigenous people and Mission Media & Broadcasting with CIAM.
As Man and I reflect on the past year our hearts are overflowing with deep gratitude to God and you as our dear family in Jesus. Your prayers and very kind support have carried us over and over again. In January Man’s Dad passed away suddenly in Hong Kong. How thankful we are to know that Dad loved Jesus! One of Dad’s drawings declares that Jesus’s death saves sinners, and that all who believe in Him will have eternal life. What a difference to know that we will meet Dad again.
In 2024, we had chance to visit many of our friends both in northern Alberta and Toronto. We especially cherished the moments with our elders. The way they live and demonstrate their faith even in their old age facing physical challenges are so inspiring. The hope and joy through their relationship with Jesus really shines even in the midst of the valley of the shadow of death. Christ’s love has cast away all fears, because they know He will make all things new… soon!
We were touched by one bed-ridden elder’s admonition; “Read the Word, Believe the Word and Live the Word.” A powerful truth to remember for all of us! Jean Campbell, our 99 years old friend and supporter emphasized the importance of knowing the difference between Jesus being Lord and Savior. She said; “He is only a Savior for those who are willing to let Him be Lord in their life.”
Another wisdom word was from Grandma May during our visit with the students at Tyndale in Toronto; “Worship music is crucial to prepare people’s heart to receive the Word and the Gospel. Like a rose is beautiful on its own, but the green leaves add riches.” That is what we broadcast 24/7 on all of our stations at CIAM.What wisdom from our elders!! Let us take heart and follow their faithful example.
Our time in the ACEM Missions Conference was another highlight this year.To be back in the church where Michael received the calling to serve full time 30 years ago, even sitting in the same seat as then, was an emotional moment. What touched us even more was that our son, Gabriel, was given the opportunity to share and preach in churches about “How to live out your faith in your profession.” As a Criminal Defence Lawyer himself he encouraged others to do likewise in their place of influence. We look forward one day to have our daughter, Lovisa, to join us as a family to serve the Lord with her story and gift in music.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”– Philippians 1:3-6
As we serve the Lord among Canada’s Indigenous people and through the various Media & Broadcasting ministries of CIAM, we have no words how grateful we are for you as our family in Jesus.
We appreciate your prayers for our immediate family (Michael’s aging parents and their salvation. Protection over Gabriel and Lovisa’s faith journey)
We look forward to what God has in store for all of us in 2025.
With much Love & Prayer
Michael & Man Sandstrom with family
