Engaging Missions Show - Powerful Stories From Christian Missionaries, Church Planters, And Ministry Leaders

Our guest today, Braden Olsen, is changing the atmosphere of his college campus in Florida. He, along with other believers, work to spread the Gospel of Jesus and to disciple people in their community. He hopes to see many students across campus come to know Jesus.With boldness and determination, Braden seeks to share the Gospel to as many people as possible. He has already planted a church on his campus, which they call “Dorm Church.” In the interview, he emphasizes the importance of reading the Bible and being obedient to God in all things. Through this humble submission to God, Braden has seen students receive the salvation God gives.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:58 – Introduction02:30 – What do you do now?03:09 – How did you get started in ministry?04:22 – A time of growing05:34 – Potential pushbackI’m just trying to kind of base my ministry off what the Bible says and try to learn from other people who I believe are following what the Bible says too.06:25 – Meaningful verseSeek first the

This week, Gret Glyer returns to the show to share about DonorSee and how it works. It is an app he created to help the fund-raisers and donors stay connected. By sharing videos and information of where the money is going, missionaries encourage donors to keep supporting their ministry.Over the last few months, Gret and his team have been able to share their story through different outlets, everywhere from Huffington Post to this show. As more people have started using the app, stories of support and financial opportunity have spread throughout the world.(Note: There were some technical issues with my audio on a couple of questions but Gret's answers were great, so I didn't want to cut them out just because I didn't sound amazing.)What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary02:10 – Introduction02:39 – What makes DonorSee different?03:35 – Training others how to use DonorSee04:36 – How has your launch been going?06:34 – The process of making DonorSee better07:57 – Surprising ways people have

There are important things to remember when working in ministry. Like that it is the Holy Spirit who draws people in, not good YouTube videos. Matthew Hess shares about the value of humility in church planting (and everyday life).He is currently working to plant twelve churches in Toronto through The Fellowships Church Planting Network in the coming years. Matt grew up in Oklahoma, and while pastoring in Northwest Mississippi, felt the Lord calling him to reach those who had never heard the Gospel. God gave him three criteria: It had to be an unchurched community, very diverse, and a big area.With that list, and a desire to remain humble and teachable, he has been able to abide in the Lord while sharing the Good News across Toronto.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:27 – Introduction02:58 – Diversity in Toronto03:31 – The community of all nations04:27 – Walking in unity in the midst of diversity06:21 – The path from Mississippi to Canada09:12 – How visas work in Canada10:23 – What has God been teac

Sometimes, we might think we don't have enough power or importance to really bring any change to the world. Our guest, Keith Smith, shows us why that is not true, and how we can easily serve those around us.Keith currently ministers in Germany byHelping burnt-out missionaries, refugees, and others in the community.Training in how to be teddy bears (those who bring comfort) or heroes (those who bring opportunity) to those around them.Through this interview, it's evident that Keith is quite the teddy bear himself as he emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding, and comforting others. With his ministry, he is able to bring the hope of Christ to those who can’t seem to find it.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:21 – Introduction01:49 – What are you currently doing in ministry?03:40 – Promoting transparency and openness08:14 – Places of preparation10:56 – God’s work through transition13:13 – What has God been showing you?Very ordinary people, the person sitting in the pew, the pers

David Kaufmann shares about a new project in his ministry. In order to equip missionaries in how to make disciples, he is starting a training school near Nashville, Tennessee. This organization works to teach missionaries through classwork and on-the-ground training.Listen to hear about the school as well as the growth of church planting in the community of Nashville and some of his goals for the area. More than anything, he points to the importance of spending time in the Word of God and of obeying Him in every part of life. Whether it be mowing the grass or making disciples, we can serve Jesus in all that we do.What we talked about00:26 – Episode summary01:51 – Introduction03:25 – How do you hear God speak to you?05:40 – Obedience leads to revelationAs I am obeying Jesus through His Word, He teaches me more about Himself, which is very natural in a relationship. As you learn more about someone, and as you learn to listen to them, you see the person’s heart.07:24 – A new understanding of ministry10:03 – Rais

Bringing many stories of transformation and reconciliation, guest Andy Navarrete tells how God absolutely changed his life. He also brings his 13- and 9-year-old sons to show how simple sharing the Gospel can be.Andy and his family currently serve the community by going door to door and telling others of the Good News. They also work to disciple others and teach them how to better share the Gospel.Through his testimonies of God’s goodness, you can quickly see how the Lord has radically impacted his life and the life of his family.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:47 – Introduction02:16 – From rock bottom to reconciliation13:57 – What has God been teaching you?Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come… For our sake, He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.2 (Corinthians 5 vs.17, 21)17:57 – Foundational Missions Leadership Moment18:44 – The Kingdom of God is like a field21:34 – The

Our guests today, Robert and Sandrina Jurjevich, have many stories of preparation, provision, and purpose. They currently minister in Bosnia by working with children, helping women through pregnancy, and serving the community as a whole.They have both gone through many transitions and changes in their ministry, but through it all, God has been faithful. As Robert and Sandrina share about their experiences, we learn about how God uses difficult times to prepare and equip us for new times. They also encourage us to remember that God is the Healer, and He has called us to be hope-bringers to this world.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:38 – Introduction02:08 – How God brought you together06:57 – Current moves in ministry08:16 – Times of transition and change10:19 – Continuing in a walk of faith12:26 – What has God been showing you?14:57 – Foundational Missions Leadership Moment15:48 – A story of preparation for ministry21:42 – Becoming a conduit for healing24:30 – Praying for the heart of Bosnia26:00

From musician to missionary to regional director of a medical organization, our guest today, TJ McCloud, has continually worked to serve the Lord in every area of his life. Currently, he is employed with OneWorld Health as a Regional Director for Central America. He and a team of local Nicaraguan doctors serve the community by creating clinics and providing sustainable health care for the people there.During the interview, TJ discusses the importance of sustainability in missions, finances, and other areas of life. He takes some time to point out how we as believers should work to further the coming of God’s Kingdom on Earth by serving those around us.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:32 – Introduction02:07 – A new clinic in Nicaragua03:01 – What do you do with One World Health?04:43 – From musician to missionary to medic07:19 – Stepping out in faith09:31 – How to approach difficult decisions11:06 – The in-breaking of God’s Kingdom12:56 – What has God been showing you recently?God is eve

In a season of tension, conflict, and division, Lisa Sharon Harper comes to remind us of the Very Good News of Jesus. Not only has God come to save us from sin or hell, but He has come to restore the very relationships around us. Through Christ, we are reconciled to God, to others, and to creation, which brings a peace that passes understanding, the shalom of God.In her book to believers, Lisa encourages us to see the Image of God in others, to hear others’ stories, and to bring reconciliation to this broken world. With every answer and story, she brings fresh perspective on the Gospel and fills her words with passion and love for God.What we talked about00:24 – Episode summary01:21 – Introduction01:57 – The fight for reconciliation and shalomAs a Christian, as a Jesus follower, I am jealous for the Image of God. I want the Image of God to flourish on Earth. I don’t want it to be crushed or diminished.For those who say that we follow Him, it’s imperative, then, that we do everything we can to defend and prote

When thinking about leadership from the world’s perspective, you might define it as taking charge, having power, and directing others. Our guest today, Bob Lidfors, clearly shows the biblical way to lead by serving. As a missionary in Germany, Uganda, and India, he partners with local believers to support them and train new leaders.Throughout our talk, Bob shares about habits that lead him in deeper relationship with Christ. For example, he discusses the importance of starting the day in worship and how it shifts his focus toward God. As he speaks about his ministry and life, one can easily see his heart to serve and love God and others well.What we talked about00:25 – Episode summary01:08 – Introduction02:25 – Involved in many nations02:48 – Walking in faith through times of difficulty05:02 – Meaningful verse07:34 – Taking a posture of worship09:01 – The revelation of relationship10:20 – Foundational Missions Leadership Moment11:01 – What are you doing in your ministry?13:49 – Fighting the “Lone Ranger” tend

Mark Brink, shares about how his ministry works to better reach the Muslim community with the Gospel of Christ. Understanding those with a different faith can take time and energy, but for all to come to know Jesus makes the work worth it. Also, Mark mentions that the harvest within the Muslim community has been great, with many coming to accept Christ.Throughout the episode, he discusses how the Lord placed a burden on him to reach the Muslim community with the Gospel. By coming into contact with different Muslims or those working closely with Islamic groups, Mark began to understand God’s heart for them. Just like anyone else, Muslims need Jesus.What we talked about00:25 – Episode summary02:13 – Introducing Mark Brink02:45 – What brought you to this place?04:35 – Unexpected calling05:26 – A pivotal moment07:02 – Coming to understand the culture10:17 – Learning from the Middle East12:24 – Walking in the tension14:15 – Starting from the beginning16:16 – Doing Ministry Well16:39 – Approachable, lovable, and va

As we leave 2016 and head into 2017, I have a special treat for you. I was able to connect with 4 different missionaries so that they could share their memories, perspectives, and New Year's wishes with you.Listen to hear about goals, challenges, stories of amazing provision, traditions, and more. And discover more ways you can continue to live Christ's love in the year to come.You will be challenged, inspired, and equipped to more fully engage in the amazing things God is doing on the Earth.What we talked about01:46 – Tony Hedrick of Adventive Cross Cultural InitiativesAdventive Cross Cultural Initiatives WebsiteTony's Website07:53 – Ann Hinrichs of Adventive Cross Cultural InitiativesAdventive Cross Cultural Initiatives WebsiteAnn Hinrichs Blog09:06 – Brian HoganThere's a Sheep in My BathtubAsteroidea Books (Brian's Books)12:21 – Bryan Thompson of Story 4 AllStory 4 All WebsiteGod's Story WebsiteMentioned in this episode:Consider Partnering with Megavoice Audio BibilesMegavoice provides solar-powe

As we head into the Christmas season, I have a special treat for you. I was able to connect with 4 different missionaries so that they could share their memories, perspectives, and Christmas wishes with you.Listen to hear about unconventional ways to show Christ's love, being separated by miles, overcoming loss and loneliness, and how YOU can encourage and support missionaries during this season.You will be challenged, inspired, and equipped to more fully engage in the amazing things God is doing on the Earth.What we talked about02:45 – Ann Hinrichs of Adventive Cross Cultural InitiativesAdventive Cross Cultural Initiatives WebsiteAnn Hinrichs Blog05:23 – Bryan Thompson of Story 4 AllStory 4 All WebsiteGod's Story Website13:11 – Brian HoganThere's a Sheep in My BathtubAsteroidea Books (Brian's Books)17:55 – Tony Hedrick of Adventive Cross Cultural InitiativesAdventive Cross Cultural Initiatives WebsiteTony's Website22:01 – Bryan Entzminger of Engaging MissionsMentioned in this episode:Consider Partn

Transforming an entire ministry can take a lot of work, and our guest, Mike (or “Puck” for short) experienced this first hand. As a ministry leader on a college campus, he realized the need to change the organization from a typical ministry to a “band of missionaries.” The focus shifted from having services for Christian students to sharing the Gospel with those who don’t know Christ.Through the difficult changes and adjustments, Puck has seen God work in many ways. Not only has this transition impacted the students on campus, but also Puck himself. In the interview, he shares about his spiritual growth through this process. Because of his and the students’ obedience, more people have had the opportunity to hear about the goodness of God and His Gospel of hope.What we talked about00:24 – Episode information and prayer requests02:22 – Introduction02:56 – Praying for laborers in the harvest03:57 – What is No Place Left?06:14 – Relying on the Kingdom principles08:16 – Walking through a time of difficulty11:54 –

Esteban Cevallos grew up in Ecuador and Columbia. At age 17, God brought him to the United States and led him on an amazing path to India and Cuba and has called him back to Central America.Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeIn our lives, God often has to break us in order to bring us to a better understanding of who He is. In this week’s episode, our guest, Esteban Cevallos, tells a story of how God broke him (literally and metaphorically) to keep him from wandering away. He also shares about his current ministry, which works to disciple leaders in powerful nations to reach their own people.From India to Cuba and many places in between, Esteban and his team have worked diligently to spread the Gospel and disciple others. As he shares his stories, we hear about his cross-cultural experiences, his spiritual growth, and his plans for ministry. By following the Holy Spirit, Esteban has seen many come to know God and know how to be ambassadors in the Kingdom.What we talked about00:25 – E

Mike Lewandowski went from prison to missionary. Focusing on his neighborhood in Florida, he's begun sharing the Gospel, planting churches, and praying for those in need - in an unexpected place.Subscribe: http://engagingmissions.com/subscribeDo you love Christ enough to proclaim it in permanent ink? Our guest today, Mike Lewandowski, joins us to share about his ministry in a tattoo parlor. He and his family currently live in Florida, and he works as a tattoo artist, showing the love of God to each customer.Although Mike grew up in a rough and broken home, God captured his heart and brought him to a better knowledge of His goodness. Over the last decade, he has worked in ministry through his business and through time in the 10-40 window. Mike shares about lessons God has shown him over the years, emphasizing the idea that wherever he is will be his mission field. With a humble heart and love for God, he tells his story of hope and redemption, of how good God is, and of God’s great plans for us.What we talked

Not everyone celebrates Thanksgiving Day but we all have reasons to be thankful every day. Listen as 4 missionaries share powerful and heartwarming stories about Thanksgiving in this special edition.Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeHonoring Thanksgiving is a great way to remember all the amazing things God has done for us. It's often a time for family, travel, friends, and a celebration of provision. But what about missionaries?What is Thanksgiving like for a missionary? What are missionaries thankful for?We have four missionaries who are sharing their experiences, memories, and the things they're thankful for. One who is from Ireland, one who spent some time in Mongolia, one who leads trips to Europe, and one who leads a missions organization focused on cross-cultural initiatives.And a surprise.Listen to be encouraged, challenged, and inspired!00:23 – Welcome to the Engaging Missions Show02:40 – Tony HedrickTony Hedrick is an artist, missionary, and master stor

Tony Svendsen is the e3 Partners Strategy Director for Ireland. He uses powerful tools and simple strategies to equip local believers to share the Gospel and plant churches. Listen to discover what God's up to.Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeFrom Uganda, to Ireland, to the States, Tony Svendsen has worked to spread the Gospel to every corner of the Earth. In this episode, he shares about what God has been up to in his ministry. He works with No Place Left and E3 Partners in an effort to equip believers with tools to make disciples.Tony also discusses the importance of seeing the “local” as the expert and learning from them. He emphasizes the value in giving them the authority to bring the Good News to their homes and towns. In his own life, he has seen God use him in ways he never expected — showing that God is capable of using us in our weaknesses.What we talked about00:25 – Episode summary03:56 – Introduction04:18 – Personal life and family05:40 – What does “No Place Left” mean?

Pastor Wayne Berry is a worship pastor with a heart for missions and reconciliation. After discipling worship leaders and over 25 trips to Africa, he's transitioning the next stage of his calling.Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeBringing much wisdom, experience, and thought into this week’s episode, Wayne Berry joins us to talk about where God is leading him in ministry. Over the last 30 or more years, he has served as a worship leader and pastor in the Body of Christ. Also, he has traveled to different nations in Africa over 20 times, acting as a “worship evangelist” there.In this next season of life, God has called Wayne into a year’s worth of travel across Africa. He shares about his process of funding and how God will provide for this. Throughout the episode, he points out the importance of our role as believers and ambassadors for Christ. No matter where you live or what nationality you belong to, as a follower of Christ, your citizenship is found in the Kingdom of God.What we

Kent Annan is the co-founder of Haiti Partners and author of Slow Kingdom Coming. Listen to discover what happens when we focus our attention well and approach missions with justice. Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeIn the midst of chaos and suffering, we as believers can cling to the hope that God is with us through it all. Our guest, Kent Annan, joins us to talk about this hope as well as how Christians should seek justice. This type of justice is not focused on retribution or punishment, but on bringing life and redemption to a community.Kent shares from his book, Slow Kingdom Coming (qualifying purchases benefit Engaging Missions), which presents ways in which followers of Christ can live justly, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. His discussion on suffering, justice, and God’s presence is thought-provoking and beautifully illustrated in an understandable way. This episode awakens us to God’s call for justice, truth, and love in our everyday lives.What we talked abou