Engaging Missions show

Engaging Missions

Summary: God is always at work and every Christian has the opportunity to be involved. Enjoy stories and insights from missionaries and church planters that will challenge you to grow, inspire you to take action, and reveal God’s heart. Whether you feel called to minister the love of Jesus across the ocean or down the street, this show is for you.

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  • Artist: Bryan Entzminger
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 EM021: Returning to Ukraine with Caleb Suko | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 42:02

Caleb Suko and his family are missionaries to Ukraine. Right how they’re in the US, preparing to return in just a few weeks. In spite of all the fighting and challenges, they feel like God would have them return. He’s also a podcaster, a blogger, and the vice president of Church Ministries Institute. In fact, I was first introduced to Caleb through his blog at SukoFamily.org and his podcast – Now is the Time. If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you may have noticed that I’ve shared a few of his posts and episodes. I appreciate his honesty and his perspective. I think there’s a lot that Caleb can offer us today and it’s my hope that our conversation will inspire and challenge you and me. And that we’ll walk away with some understanding of how we can apply what he’s learned wherever God has called us. I'd also like to mention that he just released a book on amazon called “What if… How to Kill Worry and Anxiety Before They Kill You!” Life in Ministry Caleb and his family minister in the region of Odessa, Ukraine. They are heavily involved with the local church, minister to other churches in the region, provide support for other missionaries, and provide training in missions and evangelism. He typically walks about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) to and from work every day. He spends 3-4 days a week in the ministry's office and the other 1-2 days working in their local church. On the weekends, he often ministers in their church or in other churches in the region. Key Scripture Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 Challenge As they Caleb was finishing up seminary and they were preparing to leave, their son was diagnosed with cancer. It was a really difficult time for them but through it all, they saw God's faithfulness and were able to share the hope they had with others. Revelation Rather than a moment of revelation that Caleb and his family had to begin to walk out, they discovered that God revealed His plan to them through what they'd already begun. While they were still seeking God's will and direction, they began ministering while they were visiting Caleb's wife's parents in Ukraine. They were just ministering while they were there, and considered it training. They had no idea that they were already laying the groundwork for God's call in their lives. As they prayed about it, they realized that it was both practical and that God had given them the desire to step into that ministry. Current Ministry When they return, Caleb plans to focus on two key initiatives. The first is to develop a distance-learning plan for the Russian-speaking population. Because of the geography, and also the political and religious climate of some of they countries, traditional ministry education isn't possible for some people. Second, they hope to be able to help some of the refugees, displaced by the war in Ukraine. I asked Caleb how he prioritizes and chooses what to do, with so many ministry opportunities available. His answer applies to missions, business, and life in general. It's critical to have a clear vision for your ministry. At first, you can say “yes” to many things. But later,

 EM020: Cross-Cultural Missions at Home and Abroad with Erin Paul | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: Unknown

Erin Paul is a 20-year-old college student who is investing her life in cross-cultural missions at home and abroad. She ministers in the US during the school year and takes short-term mission trips while on school breaks. I was first introduced to Erin when she spoke at our church a few weeks ago. She felt called to go on a mission trip to Kenya along with a group from our church and shared about her experiences for a few minutes. While she's in the US, Erin ministers as an intern with Community Servants, a local ministry that partners with the Wherry Housing cooperative to provide low-income housing as well as a wide range of educational opportunities for children and adults.     Key Scripture However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24 Challenge This past Christmas break, Erin spent some time in a refugee camp in Thailand. Because of some things that changed, she was the only English-speaker there. She faced some challenges that really made her depend on God. Revelation On a mission trip to Northern Thailand, Erin saw what life was like for many of the people she ministers to through Community Servants in Smyrna, TN. That experience really changed her perspective and how she approaches ministry to the Karen people from Burma (Myanmar). She is now very intentional with forming relationships and looking for discipleship opportunities. Current Ministry In a couple of weeks, Erin will begin teaching an English class for adults. She has a heart for education and is really looking forward to meeting the new students as well as reconnecting with returning students. Significance in the Marketplace Level Up One thing that was really meaningful for Erin was when people would reach out to her by email, Skype, or Facebook. It can be lonely and hard, so it's really nice to know that people care about you and what you're doing. She shared several ways to do that * Really build relationships; talk if you can. * Find out what is going on and how God is working there. * Let them know you care and are praying for them. Speed Round Hindsight * How hard it is to have her heart in so many places around the world. Best Advice Personal Success Habit * Constant communication with The Lord. Finding out what he wants her to do and thanking Him in everything. Internet Resource * WordPress If you're considering WordPress, I recommend Bluehost for hosting Book Recommendation * Jesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough Shifts in Society What's happening is definitely a God thing. What's been happening in the international community Wherry Housing has been a huge blessing. Cross-Cultural Ministry Erin says that a great first-step is to simply get to know people from other cultures. Be brave enough to step out of your comfort zone and just get to know the...

 EM019: Missions and Discipleship Through Performing Arts with Seth Brooks | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 26:27

I’m really excited to have Seth Brooks with me today. This has been a long-awaited interview because Seth and I started talking about this months ago. It’s also a very special interview because Seth is sitting right in front of me in the studio. We’re NOT connected over Skype. For the last couple of years, Seth has been on staff with Youth with a Mission in Perth Australia. He’s traveled to several countries and, most recently, led the first ever Performing Arts Discipleship Training School. Life in Ministry Unlike some missionaries, Seth's life is somewhat itinerant. While he's in Perth, he lives on a base with 250 to 300 other people. They are involved in daily worship and service ministries. As part of his involvement with the Performing Arts Discipleship Training School (PADTS), he helps students complete their applications and file for necessary paperwork. However, like many of us, some of his ministry involves short-term travel. Most recently, he led the PADTS team on a three-month outreach to India. Key Scripture The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Isaiah 61:1-4 Challenge While on the PADTS outreach, Seth ran into some pretty significant health challenges. He'd overextended himself and his health was suffering – to the point that he took days off to rest while his team ministered without him. Note: That reminded me of what Paul Yoder shared during his interview. Revelation A few years ago Seth was 26, living at home with his parents, and working a dead-end job. During that time he really sought God's will for his life and ministry. True to form, God spoke to Seth, but in a surprising way. Current Ministry Seth is very excited about how well the Performing Arts Discipleship Training School went. Because of this breakthrough, they are planning additional schools and outreaches using this model. Significance in the Marketplace Level Up Seth mentioned that it can be really exciting for a missionary to hear back from their supporters and partners. Just knowing that they're paying attention and are praying can be really encouraging. Speed Round Hindsight * Seth didn't realize how challenging it would be Best Advice Personal Success Habit Seth is driven to excellence. While that can create challenges like the health issues on his outreach, it also challenges him and those around to do and be better. Internet Resource * MailChimp Book Recommendation * Is That Really You, God? Shifts in Society

 EM018: Bible-Based Environmental Education in Kenya with Curt Bryson | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 28:19

I'm really excited to bring you Curt Bryson today. Curt is a former roommate of mine, a good friend of mine, and he was able to join me in the studio. He's been in Kenya for the past two years and is planning to return in a few months. Over the last two years he's been working with Suba Environmental Education of Kenya (S.E.E.K), which was founded by Don and Nancy Richards. With his involvement in S.E.E.K. he's been able to offer training programs in schools, minister to widows and orphans, and has started a few things that we discussed in this interview. Life in Ministry Curt shared that his life in ministry isn't all that different from having a job. In fact, he has a job – ministering at S.E.E.K. He teaches environmental studies in schools every day and leads Bible studies. He has days off and regular work hours just like the rest of us. It's just that his work is a little different. Key Scripture Curt said that the entire time he's been in Kenya, this scripture has guided his perspective and his actions. When times are tough or when things seem to be going well, he remembers Christ and Him crucified. Challenge For Curt, one of the most difficult things he went through was his transition during the first month. During that time, he had a hard time because he was accustomed to being surrounded by friends and family but went to Kenya alone. The cultural and language differences were made it hard for him to connect at first and he instantly realized he no longer had the support he used to enjoy. During that time he had to focus on his time alone with God. Incidentally, that also shaped how he approached challenges during the remainder of his time there. Revelation Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16 During on a ministry trip to one of the villages, Curt felt like the Holy Spirit led him to focus on the “prayer of a righteous man availeth much” part of James 5:16. Because of that, he took the opportunity to pray for a pregnant mother, which led to the story he shared. Current Ministry Curt has a heart to help students in Kenya who are unable to afford education. Unlike the US and many nations where high school education is compulsory, it is expensive for Kenyans to continue their education. So much that in the county where he lives, only 11% of children attend high school. And, without that education, most are destined to a life of driving a motorcycle, fishing on Lake Victoria, or prostitution. However, unlike many aid programs, they do not give resources to the children. Rather, they disciple them and give them jobs so that they can have the dignity of paying their own way. Significance in the Marketplace Many who are called to the marketplace are missionaries even though they've never been on a mission trip. When you carry the light of Christ, everywhere you go you're somewhat of a missionary. “Anybody who carries the light of Christ anywhere they go and tells people about Christ is doing missions.” Level Up Two things that could really help missionaries are to pay attention to what they're doing and help get the word out. In a world where most of the news is negative and focused on hate and fear, we need people whose perspective allows them to share the Good News of the Kingdom across the globe.

 EM017: Supporting National Missionaries with Tony Evans of Mission Voice Network | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 33:34

I'm really excited to bring you this week's guest, Tony Evans. I connected with him through Brent Bazler, who is a former guest of the show but we're not here to talk about Brent today; Tony is our featured guest. Following a career as an entrepreneur, Tony Evans began helping support the National Missionaries in rural India. Tony is now the US director for Mission Voice Network, which is primarily a church planting ministry with indigenous missionaries in the remote villages of India. They come alongside these missionaries who are already faithfully proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. With 80% of India's 1.2 billion people living in rural areas, the need is great. Only 20% of the missions focus in India is on these 800 million people who have never heard the name of Jesus Christ. And the harvest is plentiful. Key Scripture Challenge When Tony looks back at the wake of his life, he sees many instances where God has intervened. But one of the most poignant was the loss of their 9-year-old son to leukemia. Even in that difficult time, God was faithful. Revelation During Tony's career as an entrepreneur, there was a time when he was called in to consult on a problem. While there was a group that had been working on the problem for days, he had no information at all. So, on the way, he prayed for wisdom. When he arrived, he had the answer within minutes. But that's not where the story ends. God showed him something after that. Current Ministry Tony's purpose is to raise prayer and financial support in the US for the ministry that's happening in India. He's continually amazed by what they accomplish with so few resources. He also suggests that we connect with the ministry's founder, Brother V when He's in the US. You can find out more by visiting their website at MissionVoiceNetwork.org. Significance in the Marketplace Level Up Speed Round Hindsight * Tony prefers to live the adventure in the moment. He wouldn't change anything. Best Advice Personal Success Habit * Tony's strength is in organization and the efficient use of resources. Internet Resource * Bible.is One App. 997 Languages (so far) Book Recommendation * The Insanity of God: A True Story of Faith Resurrected Shifts in Society Tony isn't sure that God's behind what we see happening but he says that there's a real opportunity there. We tend to not associate with people who aren't like us but we should. Cross-Cultural Ministry In a phrase, love them. We want a step-by-step plan in the US but that's not how it works. New Place Pray and fast. Without God's direction, without Him going with us, our best laid plans mean nothing. Parting Advice Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:12-14

 EM016: Church Planting Multiplication with Jay Judson | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 28:18

Jay Judson spent 12 years ministering in a closed country. He's really good at jump-starting and multiplying networks of churches among historically bible-less people groups. I want to share some statistics with you because they’re astounding: Jay has trained 7 people. That may not sound ground-breaking but Scripture reminds us that we shouldn’t despise the day of small beginnings. Those trainees report nearly 42,500 people baptized in nearly 1,050 house churches across 10 previously unreached people groups. Additionally, he’s also worked with several groups jump-starting ministries in southern Asia. In this week's interview he shares some astounding numbers of baptisms that all started by him finding ways to decrease so that God could decrease. And the strategies Jay and others use will work in any culture – even the US. Life in Ministry Jay shares a little about himself and his ministry. When he started ministering, he found few allies in pastors. Instead, God brought him “common” people to disciple and send out, starting networks of churches in homes. * He met them on their turf. * He focused on the key elements of discipleship and let his key partners help him make it culturally relevant. * He asked, “How can we help Buddhist-background people feel comfortable worshiping Jesus?” * In the middle of oppression and suffocating poverty, they were able to ask, “Would you like to hear about hope?” Key Scripture Challenge In 2004 he started seeing tremendous breakthroughs among the Buddhist people. Almost immediately he experienced total kidney failure and had to return to the US. He was on dialysis for a couple of months. In that time, the 7 churches he had planted grew to 11, and then to 30 in the following 3 months. The churches kept multiplying while he wasn't there, which is the whole point. Revelation Meeting Dr. George Patterson totally changed how Jay approaches ministry and discipleship. Through the training he received, he learned effective ways to plant churches and to approach strategic ministry. He also learned that his focus on decreasing so that Christ could increase was critical. He Current Ministry He's received reports of over 20,000 baptisms over the last 4 months. As you'll hear Jay explain, he's intentionally under-reporting that number until he's been able to verify it even though he's personally trained and trusts the people who have given that report. Significance in the Marketplace Jay shared how one of his friends in Oregon owns a construction company and is totally about God's business in and through his business. He said that his friend (and trainee) has literally baptized people in a front-end loader and is really seeing God's Kingdom advance. Level Up Jay suggested that we do two specific things to “level up” our giving. First, focus on giving to the missionaries that we already know and love rather than giving to an organization. And, second, he provided two resources – foundations that will take seed money and invest it for the purpose of giving even more for the advancement of the Kingdom. If you're interested in that, check out both of the links below. Check them out thoroughly before you consider using them to ensure that their goals and requirements align with what you believe God would have you do. * Foreign Mission Foundation, Dr.

 EM015: Uncommon Missions Destination with Brent and Temple Cundall | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 32:36

Brent and Temple Cundall are raising support to go to an unexpected missions destination – The United Kingdom. Their mission is to raise up indigenous worship leaders to write the “heart songs” of the Hindi language and they’re currently in the States, raising funds to make the leap. Some people might be confused by a calling to a developed country. Especially a country such as the UK, the launching pad for the Wesley brothers and the home of C.S. Lewis, to name just a few. But their call is specific to the South Asian community of Southall, where it can feel more like India than England. As we talked and they shared their heart, it became clear that there is a huge opportunity in sharing the love of Christ in a community where people are in transition, assimilating to a new culture. We have similar opportunities all around us as our lives and communities become more diverse. Let's learn from what God is doing in their lives. Key Scripture After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Revelation 7:9-10 Challenge Temple shared one of the aspects of raising funds that emotionally drained her. In the end, though, God provided as she was obedient. Revelation Brent shared how he and Temple have approached this calling, always asking God for the right answer rather than the affirmative answer. From their first trip to Southall to the process of being approved by World Harvest (now SERGE), they have been submitted. They never went into something expecting a certain answer, they just wanted God to show them what they should see. As we chatted, they also shared their plan for approaching this assignment as servants, even though they're being brought in as experts. Their heart is to raise up other people, not to glorify themselves. Current Ministry They are really excited about the ministry opportunities. The church they'll be joining has 4 baptisms upcoming, each from a different major world religion. Brent said they know that this is just a taste of what is possible, knowing that only 2% of the Indian population is Christian worldwide. Temple shared a little about SERGE's ministry model. It's based on placing a community of believers in the middle of an otherwise non-believing community and allowing the contagion of the Gospel to spread. Level Up Brent and Temple are raising funds right now so they're very aware of the challenges and the value of that one-time and monthly donation. So, the easy answer is, “increase your giving.” There are other ways to give, though. Perhaps a gift card or offering a place to stay while they are on furlough could go a long way. Beyond that, communication is really important. That email letting a missionary know that you're there and paying attention can really mean a lot. Speed Round Hindsight: Best Advice Support and Encouragement Brent and Temple have had several friends who have really been cheerleaders and supporters. They've helped organize events, pray together, and raise funds. And they've had several older missionaries guide and mentor them through this process. Personal Success Habit

 EM014: Helping Missionaries Manage Their Support with Paul Yoder of DonorElf | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 23:35

Paul Yoder was a full-time missionary with Word Made Flesh. During that time he was closely involved with the struggles missionaries have raising and tracking support and developed some software that helped them. Ultimately, though, he had to leave after only 9 months. After leaving, Paul entered the workforce full-time. Still, he couldn't forget the challenges he and other missionaries faced every day in managing their support. Finally, he decided to take what he'd already done and develop a new web application to help missionaries address the specific pain points he and others were experiencing. Out of that desire to take the headache out of tracking support, DonorElf was born. Paul's hope is that missionaries will be able to focus more on what's most important in their lives and ministries. In this week's interview, Paul and I talk a little about DonorElf. Through it all, though, as we focused on the story of God in his life, we saw so clearly how God has had His hand on Paul's life through all the twists and turns his life took. Key Quote Paul shared two quotes that are really meaningful to him. Challenge There was a time when shortly after the birth of Paul's first son that he was working full-time and working on DonorElf, too. It was becoming too much and Paul was about to burn out. It was exactly at that time God began to show him the other side of the Sabbath. It's not just about rest; Paul shares what God showed Him. Revelation There was a time when Paul was struggling with why God would have him move to be involved with a missions organization, knowing that he would fail at that and have to reenter the workforce. As he prayed about it, God revealed something very meaningful to him. Current Ministry Much of Paul's current ministry is tied to DonorElf. It's already doing great things for missionaries and he personally handles many of the things an IT department would handle for larger organizations. Still, he wants it to do more and he shared several things he's hoping to add to the software so that it can be even more helpful. Level Up Speed Round Hindsight Paul wishes he would have known how much work it would be. But he's glad he didn't because he might not have built DonorElf in the first place. Best Advice Support and Encouragement One very important person has believed in Paul and his vision for DonorElf since the beginning. Personal Success Habit Paul starts his morning very early (listen to find out how early) so that he can pray, read the Bible, and work on DonorElf before he leaves for work. Internet Resource Paul shared two internet resources * Boomerang for Gmail * Postagram Book Recommendation The God Ask by Steve Shadrach * Audible (free with trial) * Amazon New Place Paul loves the outdoors. Find out what he'd do if he found himself in a new place. Parting Advice Contact Info paul@donorelf.com

 EM013: Around the World in 9 Months with Laura Beth Harbin | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 23:21

After a trip to Swaziland, Laura Beth had settled back into her comfort zone as a college student. Then she felt God’s call to lay it all down and leave on a 9-month Passport Immersion trip with Adventures in Missions. In order to raise the money she needed, she transferred to a less expensive school to save money and get ahead in her schooling. Now 20 years old, Laura Beth recently returned from her trip and is beginning to reintegrate with life in the US after ministering in 3 countries over the course of 9 months. Key Scripture Laura Beth loves both Romans 8 and Hebrews 11. In concert, they help her understand both the reality of Faith and how we walk in the Spirit. Challenge While in Guatemala for 3 weeks, Laura Beth, and the rest of the team, were really having a rough time. They were broken. But through the ministry of another team on the ground in Guatemala, things began to change. During this time Laura Beth came face-to-face with some very personal challenges. Through it all, though, God kept reminder her of how much He loved her and how proud He was of her. Revelation While in the Philippines, Laura Beth was taking some time by herself in the morning. She'd been struggling with some lies about herself in her own head. But in that moment God gave her an idea that allowed her to take physical action to overcome the mental attacks. Current Ministry Laura Beth is working at a YMCA day camp, which is helping her reacclimatize to life in the US. While she would love to continue traveling like she has been, she's not certain of her future but she knows that she needs to focus on completing her schooling for now. What is Reentry Like Imagine being with the same group of people for nearly a year and then suddenly having none of them around. And, at the same time reentering life with friends and family you've not seen in nearly a year. You've had amazing experiences that are totally separate from the way you used to live but your friends and family haven't. It's difficult to explain and to relate after an extended experience like that; it takes some time to reconnect. Level Up Laura Beth shares how focusing on one thing – a personal relationship – can apply in multiple ways. Maybe it's not so much about what you do as the focus on relationships. Speed Round Hindsight Best Advice Support and Encouragement During one personal struggle, her team was really there for her. They encouraged and supported her. Personal Success Habit Internet Resource Her mission blog Book Recommendation Abba's Child * Audible (free trial) * Amazon * iTunes Cold Tangerines * Audible (free trial) * Amazon * iTunes New Place Laura Beth would do something a little unexpected with the laptop so that she could focus on getting to know her surroundings.

 EM012: Caring for Orphans in Ecuador with Denise Piñeiros | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 19:55

Denise and Oswaldo Piñeiros are missionaries to the over 200,000 orphans in Ecuador. They povide resources to orphanages. They also  provide support and pastoral care for adoptive families and advocacy with the government. I connected with them through Autumn Kerr of Visiting Orphans, who we heard from in Episode 3. I'm really thankful for this connection. As we talked, Denise shared how God called them to this ministry. They've walked through some challenges. Now they are working on some things that should really set them up to minister more freely. Key Scripture Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27 As Denise shared her heart, she also shared how she and Oswaldo are trying to focus on the often-forgotten part of that verse. As they've started caring for orphans, it's shaped how they approach ministry in and to orphanages. Challenge Often missionaries leave family and friends behind. When they do, they can miss out on significant life events. Last year Denise had one of those experiences but God did something special that gave her an overwhelming sense of His affection for her. Revelation As Denise and Oswaldo were just learning about orphan care, God began to birth a desire to see the kind of ministry that they now have. Still, they were uncertain whether they were supposed to be the ones to do it. One day, Denise had a “mirror” experience that sealed the deal in her heart” Current Ministry Through Visiting Orphans, they have seen volunteers coming down for longer assignments, sometimes up to six months. And they are working on changing the legal status of their ministry in ways that will open more doors. Level Up Denise reminded us that being a missionary can be lonely sometimes. Often the best thing we can do to “level up” our support of a missionary is just to be a friend. Send that letter. Make that call. Connect via Skype. Focus on being fully active in their lives and building a long-term relationship. Speed Round Hindsight Denise wishes she would have known how long things can take to accomplish. Best Advice Support and Encouragement Personal Success Habit Denise has built some key relationships that allow her to learn from those who are more experienced. Internet Resource Denise gave us three: * Constant Contact * Donor Tools * Messenger Fellowship Book Recommendation Love Does by Bob Goff * Audible – available free for trying their service * Amazon * iTunes New Place Parting Advice Contact Info

 EM011: Striking at the Root of Trafficking with Amber Barron of Freedom’s Promise | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 21:55

This week we're talking with Amber Barron, the founder of Freedom's Promise. Hear her heart and the focus of Freedom's Promise is to prevent human trafficking by partnering with indigenous groups in Cambodia. Through a variety of individualized programs that include elements such as education, resource availability, and the creation of “Safe Zones.” As you listen, you'll discover how reading a single article started Amber in a direction she'd never considered. You'll also learn how her husband helps bring balance and how the board of Freedom's Promise stepped up, saved her from burnout, and breathed new life into the organization. Key Scripture & Quote Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27 Challenge Amber shares with us the challenge that many non-profits and their founders face after just a few years of operation. Thankfully, her board stepped in and the organization has new life. And, as a result of their efforts, Amber is able to focus more on what she's really good at. Revelation Amber shares the story of how reading an article started her in a new direction. It was one of only a couple times in her life when God made His plans so clear to hear. Current Ministry Amber is really excited about recent additions to the board of Freedom's Promise. It's clear that God is really building up the board to be able to shepherd Freedom's Promise into its next phase. They took several years to work on due diligence, then to get projects up and running. Now they're moving into a phase of refining. One of the things that plays into that refining phase is to focus on metrics. They know that they must measure what they're doing in order to know if it's making a difference and also to share wins with their donors. Level Up One of the biggest ways people can help a ministry such as Freedom's Promise is to help them network. To share what they're doing with people we know as well as to help connect people who want to help with them. Freedom's Promise provides opportunities for people who like to work on clean water projects, education, trafficking prevention, and more. Because they're striking at the root of the problem, there's a place for anyone who wants to help improve the situation, regardless of the kinds of projects they prefer. Speed Round Hindsight Best Advice Support and Encouragement The sabbatical that Amber's board offered her really helped Freedom's Promise and helped her to be able to continue, avoiding burnout. Personal Success Habit For Amber, it's not so much a habit as maintaining the mindset that Freedom's Promise was never hers. It has always belonged to God. Internet Resource * Bible Gateway * One other thing that's not really an internet resource has really helped her: a white board. Book Recommendation Anything by Bodie and Brock Thoene. * Amazon.com * Audible.com (free just for trying their service) *

 EM010: Serving God’s Leaders Around the World with Rich Frazer | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 31:25

This week we're talking Rich Frazer, the president of Spiritual Overseers Service, International. Over the years, SOS International has provided training to thousands of leaders in 87 countries through more than 800 training assignments. Their specific ministry style is to serve organizations who ask them to come and provide specific training for church leaders. They search for and send the most qualified people they can find to invest deeply in the local church, wherever they go. And while they are there, they serve the vision and agenda of the organization that invited them. Rich has been providing this kind of training for indigenous leaders around the world for over 20 years and has seen the exponential value of investing in the global church in this way. I'd also like to give our mutual friend, Mike Priebe of MemoryPeel a hat tip for connecting us. Key Scriptures * 1 Timothy 2:3-5 * Matthew 9:36-38 * Ephesians 4:11-12 * 2 Timothy 2:2 [Tweet “Why not teach a man to TEACH a man to fish?”] Challenge Rich points out that more than 100,000 people receive Christ every day and that more than 2,000 churches are planted every week. However, 90% of the pastors, whether volunteer, full-time, or bivocational, have little to no training. The challenge SOS International has is getting to those leaders to help them know how to study Scripture, show them what Christian leadership is all about, and to invite them to adopt a Christ-like model. Revelation Rich shares the surprising story of one of his early prayers about whether he should go into missions. Current Ministry Rich shares a little about the people SOS International is sending out over the course of this year to invest in the global church. Level Up Rich encourages us to consider our investments in missions based on the long-term impact of financial and prayerful impact. Speed Round Hindsight Best Advice * Be flexible Support and Encouragement * Many people encourage Rich Personal Success Habit Internet Resource * SOS International Website Book Recommendation * Western Christians in Global Mission: What's the Role of the North American Church? * We also discussed: When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself New Place * Rich shares who he would go find and what he would offer them to support them. Parting Advice Contact Info SOS International [wc_box color=”secondary” text_align=”left”] FREE BOOK As a listener of Engaging Missions, Audible.com will give you a free audio book when you sign up for a 30-day free trial to check out their service. With over 150,000 titles to choose from, you’re sure to find one you like. Personally, I recommend either the Bible or When Helping Hurts, which we talked about in this interview. [/wc_box] Video When we were discussing Rich's book recommendation, he also mentioned this video of Steve Saint ministering at a church. It's definitely worth 5 minutes to see this.

 EM009: Packing Bags of Light in Darkness with Pebbles Thompson of Project Ignite Light | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 29:15

Through Project Ignite Light, Pebbles Thompson shines a light in the darkness of severe child abuse. Listen to this week's episode to learn how buying pajamas and taking showers led Pebbles and her husband, Darin, from a comfortable position as youth pastors in a church they loved to a ministry that now helps 2,400 abused children each year. While the numbers are staggering, they believe that even one is too many. As you listen, you'll find how how their “burning bush” experience led them to child advocacy centers, where they discovered one way they could show the love of God and restore some dignity to children who so desperately needed it. You'll also hear a story of how Pebbles is able to deal with the emotional challenges of this kind of ministry. And, you may even some practical ways that you can be a minister of grace to those around you.   Key Scriptures * Ephesians 3, vs 17-21 * Isaiah 43, vs 18-19 Challenge During the summers, giving often takes a dip. There was one summer where it was particularly challenging. Learn how God went over and above the minimum financial need and showed Pebbles that his provision is extravagant. Revelation After nearly a year of operation, Pebbles felt overwhelmed and ineffective. But God revealed something that put it in perspective. Current Ministry Pebbles and her husband dream big and they serve a big God who rules and reigns. There are several things that are really exciting them, including things that are happening on their new property. They are also developing materials that could lead to exponential growth in serving victims of extreme child abuse. Level Up Pebbles shares some insights into the simplicity of ministry that we can apply in ministering to others as well as supporting missionaries and other ministers. Speed Round Hindsight Best Advice Build a healthy foundation. You can’t expect a house to stand if it’s not built on a solid foundation. Support and Encouragement A mentor asked Pebbles a question that helped her clarify the value of Project Ignite Light and released her from fear in raising funds. Personal Success Habit Prayer all day long and journaling. Internet Resources * Google * Bible Gateway Book Recommendation: Leadership Prayers New Place Pebbles says that it depends on the kind of place. Find out what would be different if she was in a developing country rather than a “touristy” country. Parting Advice Contact Info Project Ignite Light Resources * Book: Leadership Prayers * Resource: Bible Gateway * Contact: Project Ignite Light * Ratings on Pinterest * Ratings on Engaging Missions...

 EM008: “Yeshua as King” with Sean Steckbeck | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 24:45

Sean Steckbeck is a missionary and church planter in Israel. He often uses the “Person of Peace” framework for evangelism and discipleship and is seeing multiplication in house churches and discipleship that is beyond his ability to count. In this week's interview he shares a little about that and also some striking stories of God's faithfulness throughout his ministry. I’ve known Sean since he was in high school, which was actually a much darker time in my life. Since then God has been very good to me and Sean has stepped out into full-time ministry. In this week’s interview, he shares a number of great insights that have formed how he’s ministering to people now. And he also shares some news that stands in stark contrast to what we often see on the news. Key Scripture The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his. Genesis 49:10 Challenge Sean shares a time when God intervened in an amazing way as he and his family were returning to Israel. Revelation Sean shares one key question that God used to really shake him to his core as he and his family were approaching burnout in the ministry. And then he shares how his perspective has changed since that time. Current Ministry Sean spent over two years researching the ministry model that they have been using since about 2007. It's simple, biblical, and is growing exponentially. And the results defy what we see on the evening news; Jews and Arabs are ministering to each other. Person of Peace Sean shares how the Person of Peace model that they are using is different from traditional evangelistic methods. In his words, evangelism is transformed into a treasure hunt where the treasure is finding the person who God is already preparing. And the wonderful thing about this model is that it isn't specific to “global” missions. Instead, it is something that can be, and is being, applied wherever we are, wherever God has called us. Even if we're called to the marketplace. Level Up Sean shares two things that really encourage missionaries while they're on the mission field. Speed Round Hindsight Best Advice Something someone did to support Every letter of encouragement is like water to his soul. Personal Success Habit * Pray, pray, pray * Meditating on what it means that Yeshua (Jesus) is King in his life and what that means to those around him. Internet Resources * Train and Multiply Resources by George Patterson * Church Planting Resources by David Watson Book T4T: A Discipleship Re-Revolution New Place Sean shares what he would do with his family the first 2-3 days if he found himself in a new country. And then what he would do the next few days. Parting Advice Meditate on Yeshua as King. On what it means. Every day. Contact Information Email: simeons_cry@hotmail.com [wc_box color=”secondary” text_align=”left”] FREE BOOK As a listener of Engaging Missions,

 EM007: “Never Lose Sight of the Gospel” with Corben Barber | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: Unknown

I’ve been anticipating this interview with Corben Barber for a few weeks. He’s a recent graduate of a Discipleship Training School (DTS) with the Nashville base for Youth With a Mission (YWAM). After completing his DTS, Corben went on a two month trip to Uganda. Corben graduated from high school last year and went almost directly into Youth With a Mission (YWAM). After completing the study portion of his Discipleship Training School (DTS), he and the team he was on went to Uganda. His team just returned to the States a few weeks ago and I’ve been hoping to get him on the show ever since. In past weeks, we’ve heard from people currently on the mission field, some who have transitioned into the marketplace, or who lead missions-related organizations in the US. But Corben is our first guest who just returned from a short-term mission trip. Key Quote Challenges Corben shares with us what crutches and digestive problems have to do with a lady who wanted to receive the Gospel. Revelation Their trip involved a service project with aquaponics but when they completed their project, they realized something that made them wonder why they were really there. Their discovery “destroyed” their plans for the rest of the trip but led to a personal revelation. Current Ministry Corben has completed his time with YWAM and is seeking God for his next assignment. While he's in this time of waiting to see what's next, he wants to be focused on a couple of specific things. But he also realizes that just because he's in a holding pattern doesn't mean God can't use him right now. Level Up Corben mentions how just sharing lunch and having a real conversation as friends can encourage a missionary. That's something that we can do with anyone in our lives. Speed Round Hindsight Corben realized something when he returned that he wishes he would have known because it would have made re-entry easier. Best Advice Something someone did to support While random financial gifts are great, adding a pause and one simple word to, “How are you doing?” made all the difference. Personal Success Habit Corben has taken one practice that was mandatory while he was in Discipleship Training School and made it part of his life in a slightly different way. Internet Resource Facebook Book The Bible (Romans) * Audible.com (free if you try their service) * Amazon.com New Place Corben shares some advice that focuses differently on the first day than the final six. Parting Advice Never lose sight of the Gospel, even upon coming home. There are people all around you who are hungry for the things you’ve learned but they don’t know what they’re hungry for. And, don't be afraid to look like a fool Contact Information Facebook Email (listen to the interview for the address) [wc_box color=”secondary” text_align=”left”] FREE BOOK As a listener of Engaging Missions, Audible.com will give you a free audio book when you sign up for a 30-day free trial to check out their service. With over 150,000 titles to choose from, you’re sure to find one you like. Both Corben and I recommend the Bible. Just about any translation. You can't go wrong to have God's word available when you're driving to work,

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