Karen Watson

Meet Karen Watson. She knew what it was to be real, be curious, and to be strange. Karen had gone to Iraq to help with the people in need there. She knew of the danger there, but she seemed to hear a different voice calling her to do what others would not.

Neighbors of Karen said. "She would always call me whenever anything would happen in country. For instance, when the [United Nations] building was bombed and numerous people were killed. She had been working with the UN in that very building coordinating relief efforts. She was in and out of that building daily, and just by the providence of God she was not there the day of the bombing. She quickly called me to say she was safe, and she did that several times when there was trouble."

But March 15 was different. Neighbors and other church members heard news that five IMB workers had been shot in Iraq.

"I was thinking, 'Well, maybe Karen will call in a minute. She always calls,'" Neighbors said. "But she didn't call."

She and 3 others were killed when the vehicle they were riding in was ambushed in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul.

Later that night Neighbors remembered the letter Watson had written to him before she left for work in Iraq with the instructions that he was not to open it unless she was killed. He opened the letter. Here’s what it said:

Dear Pastor Phil and Pastor Roger:

You should only be opening this letter in the event of my death.

When God calls there are no regrets. I tried to share my heart with you as much as possible, my heart for the nations. I wasn't called to a place. I was called to him. To obey was my objective, to suffer was expected, his glory my reward, his glory my reward.

One of the most important things to remember right now is to preserve the work….I am writing this as if I am still working with my people group.

Ithank you all so much for your prayers and support. Surely your reward in heaven will be great. Thank you for investing in my life and spiritual well-being. Keep sending missionaries out. Keep raising up fine young pastors.

In regards to any service, keep it small and simple. Yes, simply, just preach the gospel….Be bold and preach the life-saving, life-changing, forever-eternal gospel. Give glory and honor to our Father.

The Missionary Heart:

Care more than some think is wise.

Risk more than some think is safe.

Dream more than some think is practical.

Expect more than some think is possible.

I was called not to comfort or success but to obedience….There is no joy outside of knowing Jesus and serving him. I love you two and my church family.

In his care,

Salaam,

Karen.

Could I add one to that poem? You know it read

The Missionary Heart:

Care more than some think is wise.

Risk more than some think is safe.

Dream more than some think is practical.

Expect more than some think is possible.

And always, always keep your eyes on the eternal.