OM USA

Hope in Desolation

2014-07-25T09:05:00.000-05:00

An explosion shatters the stillness of the night.

People scramble for shelter, the air thick with fear as they huddle together, wondering if they will even live to see another morning. A mother struggles to silence her crying child and cringes at the shouts that seem to echo across the dessert. An orphan crouches into the shadows and trembles as he hears the heavy footsteps that beat across the sandy terrain. As yet another bomb rumbles through the war-torn landscape, ripping up everything in its path, there is only one question that remains...

When will it all end?

For the people of Syria, these types of experiences have become a reality that they face each day. Several million have been internally displaced during the ongoing conflict and many others have already fled to neighboring countries.

However, even in the midst of tragedy, God is working and transforming lives. Operation Mobilization is currently involved in aid efforts and has witnessed people from all backgrounds come to faith.

Partnering with local churches and Christian groups, OM is beginning to see openness in a culture that was once very difficult to penetrate.

A Syrian woman and her child seek refuge in a neighboring country.

Pray for the Displaced...

-Comfort and peace in the midst of difficult living conditions

-Changed lives that will go back and impact Syria

Pray for the Arab Church...

-Continued encouragement and perseverance

-Wisdom and direction as they engage with the people

-Direction as they faithfully serve

-They would not grow weary

-Thrive and trust in Jesus, despite danger and persecution

Pray for OM's Work in the Near East...

-The right people would join us

-Development of sustainability projects

-God would bring a social media coordinator

-New teams going to Zahle and Ibid

Artist Spotlight: Abby

2014-07-23T10:05:00.002-05:00

Like so many other young artists, Abby's experience at Incarnate 2014 was nothing short of life changing. Skilled in over five instruments, her giftedness in the area of music was unparalleled by any other student. In fact, she was so talented, that even Incarnate leader Bill Drake found himself astounded at her musical genius.

However, despite her impressive strengths in the area of music, Abby was also very broken and damaged. Originally from Finland, her early life had been one of abuse and pain that she was desperately trying to forget. Her time at Incarnate was a drastic change from the world she had previously known, but each day was still a struggle that she had to overcome.

For the final project, each musical artist was required to create one song, showcasing everything that they had learned during the previous three months. Inspired by a recent lesson on the "Story Arc" from Genesis to Revelation, Abby chose to write four songs instead of one.

Her idea was that each song would signify a piece of the remarkable story of God's redemption and love for His people.

1. Location (The Garden of Eden)

2. Dislocation (The Fall)

3. Relocation (The Cross)

4. Restoration (Resurrection/New Life)

She was able to complete the first two sections of her musical composition, however, when she reached the third piece she couldn't go any further. As her frustration mounted, Abby began to wrestle with many events that had occurred in her past.

It was one night in the recording studio that she finally broke down, confessing and sharing everything that she had been through. As the Incarnate team gathered around and prayed for her, Abby was finally delivered from the pain and bitterness that had plagued her for so many years.

As this healing began to take place, the music also began to flow. When she finished the last note of the last song, there was no doubt that Abby's life had been completely transformed.

Her piece, which she titled "The Restoration Suite," is a striking reflection of her personal journey, conveying the awe-inspiring beauty of love and forgiveness.

While she is still uncertain about her future plans, the leadership team at Incarnate hopes to eventually help her record her own album. There is no doubt that God has gifted Abby with her incredible musical abilities for a reason. As she continues to follow Him, Abby trusts that He will guide and direct each of her steps on how to use her talents to bring Him glory.

Watch the Incarnate 2014 video: Restoration Suite

Artist Spotlight: Kara

2014-07-18T09:09:00.000-05:00

With her contagious laugh and bubbly personality, Kara brought joy to everyone who attended Incarnate 2014. As a small town girl from Minnesota, Kara had grown up in a large homeschooling family with seven other siblings.

Time - Oil paint on canvas

Although she had only taken one online art course, she possessed incredible talent, particularly in the area of painting. Her passion was to create art of people that society often considered to be insignificant or unimportant.

She was especially skilled at painting with a knife, creating a unique "ruggedness" that truly captured the essence of each subject.

Not only was Kara an accomplished artist, but she also impressed the Incarnate team with her heart for missions. She had previously been working with a refugee ministry and was already on her way to be a career missionary with substantial support.

Several weeks into the Incarnate program, Kara approached Teri Drake, one of the leaders, and shared her desire to go to Ethiopia as a missionary.

Teri wisely suggested that she write to the Ethiopian field leader, asking if they had an art program that she could participate in. She then requested that Kara draft up a list of her passions and the things that truly excited her.

When she finally received a message from Ethiopia, Kara came again to Teri, "The leader said that they don't have a vision for art, but I could do it on the side."

Teri paused for a moment and then replied, "But I didn't see teaching English on your list of passions."

Protection and Provision - Oil paint on canvas

This wise counsel impacted Kara, eventually influencing her decision to participate in the art program in Belgium instead. Now, as she has returned home, she is currently raising support for her first art missionary trip.

Throughout her time at Incarnate, Kara proved to be a true inspiration to everyone who met her. As she embarks on this newest journey, she is excited to use art as a means for reaching people all over the world.

Artist Spotlight: Emma

2014-07-17T07:31:00.000-05:00

The shadows danced on the walls of the small cave as Emma leaned against the stones, eyes closed and heart searching for answers. The group had long since left, but she had requested to remain alone, in a cave where persecuted Christians had once come to worship in secret.

Sing.

It was here in this silent darkness that Emma felt she could truly hear the voice of God, and this moment, He was telling her to sing.

Emma opened her eyes slowly, feeling His presence deep within her, and wanting nothing more than to answer His call.

But as she took a breath to begin her song, she hesitated, feeling a lump in her throat that seemed like it was suffocating her; keeping her from making any sound.

When she finally emerged from the cave, she met with her Incarnate discipleship group, tears filling her eyes as she began to weep.

Incarnate students gather in a cave where persecuted
Christians worshipped in secret during the Middle Ages.

---------

Originally born in Zimbabwe, Emma had lived in New Zealand for the majority of her life. Now, as a 20-year-old student, she had flown halfway around the world to spend time in Italy at Incarnate 2014.

However, the past few weeks at Incarnate had not been easy. Not only was she painfully shy, but she wasn't engaging, completing any projects, or even asking for help despite the staff's tireless efforts.

Perhaps most concerning was Emma's difficulty with the major project of creating artwork for a local festival. In fact, she was struggling so much that Incarnate team contemplated sending her home.

It was during one last effort by Incarnate leader, Bill Drake, that he presented Emma with a halfway finished song. Little did he know the impact that the words would have in Emma's broken life.

Standing here in the darkness, I want to see you, I want to see you.

Standing here in the silence, I want to hear you, I want to hear you.

The lyrics resonated with Emma in a way that nothing else had seemed to. Not only did they describe her experience in the cave, but they also reflected her heart's deepest desire to truly understand God's purpose for her future.

As she completed the song and performed it in the studio, the team watched with complete amazement at the transformation that had taken place in Emma's heart.

When her time at Incarnate finally drew to a close, she was reluctant to return home to New Zealand. While she is still unsure about her future, the three months spent in Italy sparked a desire to join OM Arts or be involved in music in some capacity.

As she seeks to follow God's plan, the Incarnate team continues to pray for clarity, guidance, and the ability to process everything that she learned at Incarnate. Through the struggles, fears, and even heartache, Emma had the opportunity to experience things that she could have never imagined.

While she may not completely understand her next steps, there is no doubt that God can use her in amazing ways if she continues to trust and follow Him.

Watch the Incarnate 2014 video: Your Voice

Artist Spotlight: Katie

2014-07-16T07:26:00.001-05:00

When Katie first arrived in Bobbio Pellice, Italy for OM's 2014 Incarnate event, she was exhausted - physically, mentally, and perhaps most of all, emotionally.

For the past four years, she had been serving with the OM ships ministry and the intense community and lifestyle had left her needing time to rest and recharge.

As the first few days passed, workers began to notice that Katie often pulled away from group activities to be alone. However, despite her hesitancy to interact, the Incarnate staff still saw an artist with incredible potential.

It became increasingly obvious that something was troubling Katie, causing her to hold back from fully engaging. It wasn't until several weeks later that she finally approached one of the staff members with a concerned look on her face.

"I think I'm in trouble," she began, "I'm starting to fall in love with the people here and that scares me. I've done that so much during these past few years [on the ships], and then people leave."

Listening to Katie's fears, the team member was able to share the long-term vision of the Incarnate ministry. "We're not just people who come for 90 days and invade your life. We want to walk this journey with you, and continue serving and praying for you."

Finally something "clicked" for Katie, and she truly began to understand and feel a safety that she had never experienced before. As the staff continued to love and invest in her, they watched her open up in new and exciting ways.

Now, utilizing her musical gifts and talents, she hopes to join OM Costa Rica or OM Arts International as a resident artist. After many years of exposure to various cultures during her time on the ships, she truly possesses a heart for the people of the world. One of her strongest passions is to bring hope to the homeless children on the streets and restoration to those who have never heard the gospel.

Taking everything that she learned at Incarnate, Katie's deepest desire is to pour into others, refreshing them, just as she herself has been refreshed.

Artist Spotlight: Sophia

2014-07-09T07:06:00.001-05:00

Bell in a Tower - acrylic on canvas

After serving in Morocco with her family for four years, Sophia finally had the opportunity to experience the impact of OM Arts through the Incarnate 2014 program. However, despite her initial excitement to attend, staff and other students began to notice that she was quiet and often kept to herself.

Wanting to ensure that she felt included, one of the workers approached Sophia voicing their complete support for her.

"I told her that if she needed time alone, or time to pull herself away that it was totally okay," the staff member shared.

However, as Sophia later explained, the experience was much more than she had ever anticipated. In fact, after having a lack of community for so many years, she found the entire program completely overwhelming.

This didn't stop the entire team from pouring into Sophia's life and watching her grow and flourish over the next three months.

"There's something about community, that when you really experience it you want to stay there. It was so amazing to see someone who is so young to be transformed so quickly," the worker said.

Beneath the Fig Tree - acrylic on canvas

Now, as Sophia returns home to Morocco, she has wrestled with the question of how to bring that sense of community back with her. Although this process may take time, she possesses a true heart to use her gifts for the Lord and to serve the Muslims and refugees.

Sophia was described as being a phenomenal visual artist with a deep desire to be responsive to God's calling in her life.

"She doesn't care what it looks like, where it is, or the timing...she just wants to be obedient," the staff member explained.

Bird on a Wire - acrylic on canvas

Despite the intense culture of Morocco, Sophia is truly excited about serving the Lord right where He has placed her. Although it will certainly not be easy, she is stepping out in faith and blooming where she has been planted.

Changing the World, One Artist at a Time

2014-07-05T11:35:00.000-05:00

Art is a universal language. It transcends dialects, cultures, and lifestyles. It engages the imagination and speaks to each individual in a unique and personal way. It has the power to touch lives, to excite, and to impassion.

And, as Operation Mobilization has discovered, art has the potential to impact entire communities and reach people for Christ.

OM Arts, a branch of OM International, has sought to provide Christian artists with a channel to utilize their unique talents and gifts to communicate the gospel.

Their flagship program known as Incarnate, invites artists to spent three months in the Italian Alps, tucked away in the rural village of Bobbio Pellice. During this time, they are helped to develop their craft through training, art projects, and community engagement. They are also discipled and mentored on how to best utilize these talents for a future career serving through art ministry.

Bobbio Pellice, Italy

The vision of Incarnate is to prepare artists to use their skills as a tool for sharing the gospel globally. Touching lives all over the world, OM Arts has proved that God can use any medium to spread the message of salvation among the nations.

A Transformed Life: John's Story

2014-06-20T07:38:00.000-05:00

It was a day just like any other.

Confined to his wheelchair, John sat at the edge of the crowded street, begging in order to survive. Some took pity, and others walked by in disgust, not even daring to lay a finger on his wheelchair. As a disabled person, John had been an outcast for years, rejected by both his family and society.

As the people continued to rush by, many refusing to glance in his direction, one woman slowly approached the place where he was sitting. As he did every day, John called out to her, pleading for food or money. Little did he know that his life was about to change forever.

This woman, as it turned out, had previously worked with OM Zambia and Bethesda Ministries, an organization dedicated to reaching out to the disabled of Africa. After a long conversation, she was able to connect John with Peter Chila, the current leader of Bethesda.

John shares his story

Through the work of OM Zambia that John has now experienced true love and acceptance. As he shared his story, he glowed with a renewed hope and purpose, one that can only come from the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

John now leads a support group in his community, meeting each Friday and sharing encouragement and scripture to people like himself. The work of those at Bethesda has truly transformed his life, providing him with opportunities that are beyond even his wildest imaginations.

"One day during our meeting, Peter came to me and told me that I was included in the team to travel to America," John explained. "I never thought or dreamed that one day I would come to America...I am from a poor family and I am also disabled. I know now that my God is so great and so powerful."

Along with the OM Zambia leadership team, John will be traveling to Minnesota to attend a national wheelchair camp. Throughout his time, he will participate in activities, listen to speakers, and meet others who struggle with similar disabilities.

"I cannot wait to go back home and share with my fellow disabled, making them understand that it is only God who is capable of bringing change into our lives. I want to help others experience exactly what has happened to me."

John truly believes that God has used Bethesda to give him a second chance at life. His deepest desire is to spread the message of healing and compassion to everyone around him, impacting those who are despised and forgotten.

Spotlight: OM Zambia & Bethesda Ministries

2014-06-18T07:32:00.002-05:00

Some limp, while others are pushed in wheelchairs, but there is no doubt that each person has a special connection to Bethesda Ministries. It has become a center of opportunity for the destitute and a place of joy for people who once had no hope.

Since it opened in 2009, Bethesda has provided a place of safety and opportunity for the disabled, sharing genuine love and acceptance that many have never experienced. The ministry has grown significantly in just a few years and now offers physical therapy, support groups, and even operations to those with treatable ailments.

OM Zambia started their first school for disabled children
in Kabwe in January 2013.

Their latest achievement has been the addition of a school for disabled children, the first of its kind in Central Zambia. Under the leadership of Peter and Brenda Chila, the ministry has flourished, bringing laughter, love, and freedom to so many.

They currently work daily with fifteen students who suffer from cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down syndrome, or other unknown diseases. Peter described the desperate needs of the disabled in a culture that casts them aside.

"Bit by bit we are penetrating the community, persevering in prayer. Grace is coming from those people as they see the transformation and healing that is happening," he shared.

Each year, Bethesda holds a Community Disabled Day, inviting those from the area to join together to see and hear what is taking place. The goal of the event is to bring public awareness and a sense of acceptance among the people of Zambia.

Peter, of OM Zambia, helps a young
disabled boy draw

"For years, many parents would hide their disabled children in their homes," Brenda explained, "so for many of these people, it was their first time to fellowship with others."

In just a few years, Bethesda has brought unbelievable change into the community, and the vision continues with their current plans for expansion. Starting a computer-training program, building a physical therapy room, and updating facilities for the mothers are just several projects they anticipate in the future. Additionally, Peter and Brenda hope to build an integrated school where both disabled and able-bodied children can learn together in a encouraging environment.

However, even amidst their numerous responsibilities and daily demands, the Chilas have not lost sight of their true motivation for what they do

"The uniqueness of our ministry is not just about education or buildings, it is about the heart and the calling. You really have to know that you have been called by God," Brenda smiled.

Although every day is a sacrifice, Peter and Brenda have a true heart for those who cannot help themselves. Dismissing cultural expectations and barriers, they are reaching out to the lost and forgotten of Zambia and changing lives for eternity.

Pray for Zambia:

*People with disabilities to be accepted in their communities

*Funds to build the new integrated school

*Empowerment for the affected families

*Funds to pay the teachers' salaries

*Transport money to take the children to surgery

The OM Zambia team shares about what God
is doing at Bethesda.

For more information about OM's work in Zambia and how you can get involved, please click here.

Prayer Plus: 48 Hours of Prayer

2014-06-17T08:23:00.000-05:00

"I call on you Lord, and you answer me." (Psalm 17:6)

The prayers of God's people are a powerful force. We can communicate with the Creator of the entire universe. We can stand before the throne of the Lord who holds the keys to eternity. We can speak to the God who has no beginning and no end. We can approach our Father who loves us more than we could ever imagine.

With prayer, we can move mountains.

As the OM team began their 48 hours of prayer, many people were encouraged to pray continually and take part in an intimate time with the Lord. In a world of darkness and sin, only God has the power to change hearts and lives for His glory.

During this special time, a local family requested prayer as they begin their two-year commitment in the Near East. With the continuing rise of violence and unrest in neighboring Syria and Iraq, the region has experienced a surge of hundreds of thousands of refugees seeking protection. Operation Mobilization has worked closely with local Arab churches to provide food, medical assistance, counseling, and other forms relief to those who are struggling to survive.

Literature distribution in the Near East

However, even amidst the desolation, God is at work in the Near East. Along with their three teenage daughters, the family expressed their desire to bring hope and restoration through Jesus Christ and shared stories of the amazing openness to the gospel.

The OM Near East team currently consists of 80 adults with over 12 new recruits joining in August and September. Although they will be leaving many familiar things behind, the family is deeply committed to following God wherever He should choose to lead them.

They originally discovered OM through short-term mission trips, however it wasn't long before they began to sense God's prompting to become even more involved in the organization. Now, through pastoral care, counseling, and leading worship, they anticipate the ways that God will use them to reach many people in a region that desperately needs the gospel.

"Rejoice always, pray with out ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Prayer Plus: International Perspectives

2014-06-06T07:31:00.000-05:00

For the first time in nearly a decade, Operation Mobilization's international board of executives visited the Atlanta-based office. During the weekly prayer meeting, they addressed staff and volunteers, each taking a few moments to share the work that God is doing around the world.

South Africa Field Leader, Peter Tarantal

Leaders from Mozambique, France, and South Africa recounted numerous life-changing experiences that they had witnessed through interactions with the locals. They told about evangelism, missionary training, and voiced genuine gratitude for OM's faithful partnership. As they endeavor to take the gospel to the ends of the world, they each agreed that their work would not be possible without the prayer and support of those in the United States. Though the journey is often wrought with difficulty, they are beginning to see many people respond to the gospel and experience the saving power of Jesus Christ in their lives.

Staff and volunteers gather to pray for the leadership
team and their ministry around the world.

CEO of the Ships Ministry, Peter Nicoll, inspired the audience as he shared stories from over 40 years of ongoing global impact. He described the recent experience of welcoming nearly 46,000 Japanese onboard to provide encouragement and share the hope of the gospel. Through literature distribution and evangelism, the ships have aided in mobilizing local churches and taking the scripture to places that would be otherwise unreachable. The ministry continues to expand rapidly, with the Logos Hope being the only OM project that had raised $10 million dollars of funding nearly two years before they needed it. As God is continues to do amazing things through OM's ship ministry, Nicoll urges fellow believers to pray, believing that that the ministry is truly propelled by the prayers of God's people.

International Director, Lawrence Tong

International Director, Lawrence Tong expressed his visions for OM as the organization embarks on a 24-month journey towards restructuring. The goal of this transition, he explained, is not to be better or perfect, but instead to release, equip, and empower thousands more people to missions. As he shared from Genesis 13, Tong's awe-inspiring passion and heart for missions shone through. With over two million people who have never heard the gospel, Tong's vision is to dare to trust God for things so big that they are bound to fail without His help. During this time of change, his desire is that OM would be completely available and ready to take action in any way that God should choose. As Tong so perfectly described, "Let us be the coin in God's pocket to use in any way that he pleases." Tong believes that as OM continues to grow, God will use the organization in extraordinary ways to claim the entire earth for His kingdom.

From Internship to Asia

2014-06-02T07:46:00.002-05:00

As an International Affairs student at Kennesaw State University with absolutely no interest in diplomacy, many may have wondered if Blake chose the right major. However, Blake explains that he selected the major because of his desire to be involved globally, even if it was not through the typical career path. Believing that God would show him how to best use the degree, he continued in his studies and began to seek opportunities that might provide some direction.

Blake (OM USA Intern)

Through both prayer and networking, he was able to connect with a friend who was involved in Operation Mobilization. This interaction opened the door for a meeting with OM executives and eventually an internship, an opportunity that he had never originally expected.

As a part of Operation Mobilization's pilot internship program, Blake was able to obtain approval through his university for nine hours of related studies college credit. Working in the Global Connections office, his days involved a variety of unique tasks with the central focus being on research. He explained that since missionaries are increasingly required to possess specific trades or skills, his research focused on finding marketplace opportunities for their involvement around the world. Throughout the duration of his internship, he was also heavily involved with his university, raising awareness and excitement for missions.

As the final component of his internship, Blake agreed to participate in a summer mission trip. The goal was that this cultural immersion would solidify everything he had learned and provide him with an opportunity to experience OM's impact firsthand. The location of his trip was originally kept a secret so that he would focus on the "why", not necessarily the "where." By going to an unknown location, his supervisors believed that he would be able to focus on what the Lord truly wanted him to do and not become distracted by the practical aspects of the trip.

However, through a series of circumstances, the information was accidentally leaked, informing him that his destination was Southeast Asia. "The Lord must have wanted me to know," he laughed, "[Southeast Asia] is a hard place to be, but OM has been very successful there."

Although not certain about the specifics, he explained that he would meet up with a church planting team in the area. In addition to planting new churches, he hopes to participate in urban ministry, street evangelism, and hiking to remote villages to share the gospel.

"It's really relational ministry - to discuss with them how they are, who they are, the desires of their heart, and to be a good impression for Christians and Americans."

Spending a summer abroad will be a truly life changing experience, and he believes that his time interning at Operation Mobilization has prepared him for any challenges he might face.

He explained that his time spent in the office environment gave him a glimpse into how a healthy workplace community should function. Combined with OM's strong collective vision, this well-rounded experience could be applied later to both Christian and secular organizations. Blake shared that the balance of both vocational and spiritual emphasis was perhaps the most unique aspect of the internship.

"Learning scripture and theology in addition to the office work that I do has just grown me so much in my faith. The more I know about Christ, the more confident I am to do things for Him," he explained. "I have appreciated hearing the stories and interacting with the diverse group of people working here. You have an opportunity to serve the Lord in a fun environment where you can delight in what you are doing and know that the work is directly correlated with kingdom visions overseas."

Although his time at the office may have drawn to a close, he says that his experience at OM has set him on a journey that will lead him to places he could have never imagined. As he embarks on his newest mission, Blake is confident that the Lord will guide and direct his steps, both for the upcoming summer and adventures in the future.

VIDEO: Hajj 2011

2011-11-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend is the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the pillars of Islam. Learn about the traditions of the Hajj observed on each day. Thanks for praying throughout the weekend for Muslims on the Hajj. You can print the prayer guide mentioned in the video (PDF) here.

ShipShots: Keeping it Safe

2011-08-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

New crew members joining the OM ship Logos Hope receive crucial safety training.

Climbing for freedom

2011-08-29T14:52:00.001-05:00

OM team member Lori Degler is interviewed by a reporter in South Florida on the upcoming Freedom Climb in January, an event to raise funds and awareness for OM justice issues. You can learn more at the Freedom Climb website. (NOTE: the video below begins with an ad.)

Tonight: Islam's Night of Power

2011-08-26T13:46:00.000-05:00

Tonight Muslims honor Mohammed's reception of the Qur'an during what is called the Night of Power. It is a time to perform rituals but more importantly, make special requests of God. The Muslim's requests would be no different than anyone else's: prayers for provision, for safety, for families. But normally, Muslims do not go directly to God with these requests. This is a special night, a time of openness and seeking God's Power.

Please pray for Muslims tonight, that they would hear the voice of Jesus. Pray many would have dreams of Him and be drawn to learn more about Him in the Bible. Pray for believers who will be among Muslims tonight. Pray they will have opportunities to pray to Jesus with Muslim friends and colleagues. Pray for God's power to touch the Muslim world -- tonight, and for years to come.

VIDEO: George on The 700 Club

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

OM Founder George Verwer is interviewed on The 700 Club.

Prayer Shorts: A Church in the Desert

2011-08-25T07:00:00.002-05:00

A video introduction to praying for the Arabian Peninsula.

"Just be."

2011-08-24T07:00:00.004-05:00

A Roma (gypsy) child in Europe.

"About six months ago, I stood at the back of a chapel listening to a young man who is giving his life to serve God in missions,” said Melissa, a U.S. high school teacher.

“He was challenging the high schoolers I work with to think about God's love propelling them to tell others. At least I think that is what he was talking about. It was hard to focus as God was having His own conversation with me. I heard God clearly speak to my heart that morning, ‘It's time to go.’ I had been waiting for those words for several years.” As a missionary kid, Melissa’s heart had long been to be a full-time missionary. Since graduating from college six years ago, she has regularly asked God whether it was time to go. The answer has always been, “Not now, not for a while.”

“I was shocked when I heard God’s summons to go that morning,” Melissa continued. “I was to go on a short-trip to the Roma gypsies this summer. When I asked Him what I was to do there, He answered that it wasn't about doing anything. ‘Just be,’ He said. I was so excited about this news. During my senior year of college, I had written a paper about the Roma people and had been praying for them ever since. So now it was time to go. I found OM's website advertising short-term trips for 2011 on Google. They had a trip going to Romania to work with the Roma people. When I read the tag line for it, I almost fell out of my seat, ‘Our goal is to just BE for the Roma people.’ Those were the exact words God had given me for the trip. The rest is history…”

ShipShots: Preparing the Way

2011-08-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

It's a hectic job managing logistics for a Logos Hope visit. Here, the Advance Preparation Team lines up details for the ship's time in Abu Dhabi.

Creative ministry ideas at TeenStreet

2011-08-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

As part of the TeenStreet conference in Germany this year, 2,000 teens hit the streets with:

Teens wait as a local man fills out a postcard; postage was paid by TeenStreet.

drama
music
street dancing
face-painting
nail painting
chatrooms
prayer walking
handing out roses
free postcards

In partnership with the city of Offenburg, an attempt was even made to beat the record for Germany’s longest coffee table. TeenStreet served 625 tables with coffee and cake provided by a local bakery and many encouraging conversations were started.

“We want Christians to be involved in society, making an impact by serving, being an example and sharing the love of God in practical ways," said Clarion Samuels of OM Germany, "Young people play a big part in changing society with the love of God.”

The City of Offenburg was so impressed by the event that they invited TeenStreet back to the city for two more nights. It was not the world record that impressed the officials. Clarion says, “They were impressed by the discipline and love the teenagers shared with other people and how they served the city. Through the teenagers of TeenStreet, locals have come to view teenagers in a new way.”

You can participate in creative ministries on a short-term mission trip. See creative trips available here.

VIDEO: George waves to Logos Hope

2011-08-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

OM founder George Verwer waves to crewmembers as Logos Hope leaves Dubai. Stay tuned as the ship pulls away to learn how to get a free book, to catch a glimpse of the world's tallest building, and to learn of a crucial need aboard the ship.

Prayer Shorts: Psalm 65:9-12

2011-08-18T07:00:00.007-05:00

A scripture to pray over the Arabian Peninsula, Psalm 65:9-12 from the New Living Translation:

You take care of the earth and water it,
making it rich and fertile.

The river of God has plenty of water;
it provides a bountiful harvest of grain, for You have ordered it so.

You drench the plowed ground with rain,
melting the clods and leveling the ridges.

You soften the earth with showers,
and bless its abundant crops.

You crown the year with a bountiful harvest;
even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.

The grasslands of the wilderness become a lush pasture,
and the hillsides blossom with joy.

Psalm 65:9-12

Norway: Be anxious for nothing

2011-08-17T15:45:00.000-05:00

An OM team member in Norway writes:

"On July 22, Norway was shocked by a terrorist attack in the capital city of Oslo, where 77 people were killed. Slowly we have understood the extent of this catastrophe, and there have been strong reactions. Fear, anger, disbelief and shock are some of the expressions we see in the face of this unspeakable tragedy. In these difficult times, many are visiting churches and congregations to be closer to God, for fellowship and comfort. Many people have questions about life and death.

"The reactions of the Norwegian people in the days after the disaster show that the terror attack had a completely different effect than was intended. The terrorist failed in his attempt. When thousands of people go into the streets and stand united for peace and reconciliation, it shows clearly that good is much stronger than the evil that tries to destroy. The disaster has not only united our nation, but has put souls on fire. Never before have entire streets in Oslo been closed because of flowers. About 40,000 were expected to join the parade in memory of the victims, but close to 200,000 came. When so many stand together, we show the world that we are not afraid and we are not angry. "Sickness and death, terror and pain are a part of life. But for all those who follow Jesus, we are not alone.

Philippians 4:6 says, 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus' (NKJV). "We do not respond evil for evil, but we fight evil with good. And this is also our prayer for the church, that with this love that God has shown us, we will win. Our thoughts go to all those affected and those who have lost someone in this tragedy. We pray for the Norwegian people and want to stand with them in every way."

Please join OM in prayer for the people of Norway.

ShipShots: Clean Ship

2011-08-16T07:00:00.002-05:00

Behind the scenes of the OM ship Logos Hope with the Hotel Services Department, or "Angels" as they are known on board. Their team keeps the ship clean.