You will hear below, the announcement given by R. Loren Sandford (John & Paula’s oldest son), sharing about the new direction all the Sandfords’ children will be taking in the days ahead as they are no longer associated with Elijah House.
As the Director of Freedom House I wanted to share some thoughts, insights, and words of encouragement. First let me quote from Loren’s prophetic word:
“God is moving the pieces on His master chessboard to position us for the strategic days to come. Ministries are shifting and changing. Those who embrace His changes to reflect His heart more fully will prosper, even though the process of change may be gut-wrenching and difficult.”
John & Paula Sandford have left a legacy that is far-reaching around the world, and as friends with the Sandfords, colaborers, and school facilitators for many years, it is essential that we share some personal thoughts and insights.
We have known, worked, and sat under Mark & Maureen for many years, and our respect and honor has only deepened through this process and time. John & Paula have left another monumental & enormous legacy—“THE SANDFORD CHILDREN,” who through all their lives were imparted to, downloaded to, and instructed about John & Paula’s revelations, their messages of transformation, sanctification and redemption. Many, if not all, will be devastated about this news that none of the Sandford children are part of Elijah House, and none of the Sandford children are sitting on the Board of Elijah House. Undoubtedly, many will be hurt by this news; some will be disheartened, some will falter and stumble in pain and say, “How could this be?” and will have more questions than answers.
The Father knows the reality of your hurt and pain, but rest assured as someone very close to the Sandford’s children once said, “Whenever the Lord calls us into something new, we must first leave the old—physically, emotionally, spiritually and economically” (John Sandford in “Cutting Free”). I would like to encourage and challenge you at this time, don’t lose heart, and stand steadfast in seeking out what He has called YOU to do during this time of a great evolution, progression and advancement in the Kingdom.
I can assure you that Mark & Maureen are honorable, noble, and upright leaders, teachers, and directors in the Body of Christ. As leaders they have always walked in transparency, honesty, accountability, reconciliation, and resolution, and they have never sought to dismiss or marginalize people. In John & Paula’s teaching, “Honoring Father and Mother,” there is some great insight that is given—“On What Basis do We Honor Someone?” We honor someone in their personhood, or their identity; we honor in relationship, position and authority. Therefore, we honor John & Paula Sandford for giving us Elijah House and all their revelations & teachings, along with all their children who walk in the Father’s ways and are instructed by and in Him. We continue to honor Elijah House and bless their ongoing ministry. And we honor Mark & Maureen Sandford for the mantle that was bestowed upon them by God and John Sandford to continue His work in Malachi 4:5-6:
“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”
“Therefore, the goal of spiritual leadership is that people come to know God and to glorify him in all that they do. Spiritual leadership is aimed not so much at directing people as it is at changing people. If we would be the kind of leaders we ought to be, we must make it our aim to develop persons rather than dictate plans. You can get people to do what you want, but if they don’t change in their heart, you have not led them spiritually. You have not taken them to where God wants them to be.” (John Piper—The Marks of a Spiritual Leader)
Father, I pray in Your Name that the Body of Christ will walk in wisdom, insight and prayerful ways in the days to come as things are shifting and changing on the “Chessboard of Life”. Father, I believe you are shifting and changing many things around the nation, around the world, locally, and internationally. Give us eyes to discern and see from Your perspective; give us ears to hear what Your Spirit is saying, and Father, give us Your heart so we can be generous to love and honor –Amen.
– Mari Anne Andersen
Write Mari Anne with any thoughts, questions or comments you may have: marianne@freedomhouseministry.com