Preface

Ross Perot has helped many who find themselves in need. Having followed news of the Burnhams’ captivity and Gracia’s return to America, Ross Perot stepped in to offer Gracia and her children help and support. The Burnhams view him as one of their heroes.

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Missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham dedicated their lives to helping others. For over fifteen years, they lived and served among the poor on the Philippine islands of Luzon and Mindanao. But their work was interrupted in May 2001 when they were captured and held hostage for over a year by members of the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group.

The U.S. government worked diligently to rescue the Burnhams, finally sending a military team into the jungle to advise Philippine government troops. On June 7, 2002, after a year of pursuit, Philippine soldiers surprised the kidnappers and launched a rescue attempt. Gracia was rescued but Martin was killed in a gun battle between the kidnappers and the soldiers.

During their hostage ordeal, the Burnhams lived by these words:

GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THIS, THAT A MAN LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS.

Throughout their missionary careers, they had been inspired by these words from Isaiah:

WHO WILL GO? SEND ME.

As you read this book, you too will be inspired to serve others, even during difficult times.

Ross Perot