MercyToday: Recent Episodes
MercyToday
MercyToday, presented by Mercy, inc., is unlike any other radio show, podcast, or ministry that we know! Our primary purpose: a brilliant beacon of the message of how compassion changes everything through our captivating, weekly interviews with missionaries and ministry personnel!
In most areas of the world, a person who cannot read and write lives a life of darkness and severe limitations. Literacy turns on the lights and liberates the person to vast opportunities they never had before. God has raised up a man to bring the gift of literacy to several African countries. Hear of the door-opening power of literacy, and how this gift can change lives in even bigger ways.
Guest: James Kigamwa
Links: Mercy, inc.
with AfterWords
Jesus tells us about different soils and what results to expect once seeds get sown into them. Mercy, inc. has a program that puts this parable into practice by educating Africans on farming and making disciples. While many are staying home during the pandemic, this is not an option when people are starving. Sharing the Gospel of Christ is necessary, especially when so many people are dying and could be entering eternity without Him. Our guests this week are Jim Caya, CEO of Empowering Lives International, and Beatrice Tonui Kirui of Kenya, who has a career in agriculture, farming, and the seed industry.
Guests: Jim Caya, and Beatrice Tonui Kirui
Links: Empowering Lives Intl, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Take a world tour and get up-to-date reporting on what’s going on with Mercy and its partners. So much good is being done amid obstacles and barriers. The COVID pandemic has placed many limitations on travel and gathering, but amid all that, God is work! Region by region Doug and Rich share the stories of hope and inspiration being delivered by God’s faithful servants. Hear the latest, be encouraged!
Guests: Doug Hoffman and Rich Danzeisen
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Mission work requires a lot of hands and hearts doing a lot of different things. Bud Lenker takes us behind the scenes to get a view of some of the essential tasks that help everything run. What went through his mind as he was falling 30 feet from a ladder? Hear what happened next. Did he hesitate to return to the mission field? He’ll tell you.
Guest: Bud Lenker
Links: Mercyinc.org, Bethesda Medical Center , StarfishKids, MercyToday.Global
Mercy board chairman Dave Graffenberger was called to serve the Lord at age 14. Hear how he was protected by a circle of angels in a Haitian banana plantation. Just might give you the shivers! And how about his Dad’s prayer from 3,000 miles away? Little did he know that Dave needed the protection at that very time.
Guest: Dave Graffenberger
Links: MercyInc.org, OneMissionSociety.org, MercyToday.Global
with AfterWords
Children of Venezuela desperately need nutrition and education. The Soy Satura project provides both – and a whole lot more. Hear how brave moms take their kids across a border to get much-needed help. When you hear how this brilliant program works for the kids, you’ll also hear how the moms get what is hard to come by. This benefit can make a dramatic change for the whole family that lasts for years to come.
Guest: Chris Williams
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Note: This episode was recorded before the August 14,2021 earthquake.
How are things going in Haiti, you ask? Mercy has lots of work going on there and God is touching lives even through recent disasters, unrest, unending poverty and disease, and now the COVID pandemic. A team was sent to visit the schools that have the Starfish program. Lots of pictures, smiling faces, Salvation Story bracelets, and wonderful, heart-warming stories. Be informed and inspired as Bud and Cindy give their report. Listen with your heart.
Guests: Bud Lenker, Cindy Lenker
Links: Starfish Kids, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Education is sometimes rare and highly valued in regions of Africa. When parents see the importance of literacy and other knowledge and skills, they seek education for their kids to give them a better future. That presents a perfect opportunity for our guest and his team to offer quality Christian schools in and around Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia. Hear how this opportunity helps the mission team grow churches and make disciples.
Guest: Gordon Elliott
Links: The Evangelical Church, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
What could God do if you gave Him your business? If all the profits were given to His work around the world, how would that change the atmosphere at work? How would it change office conversations and workers’ motivation? And how could God use $100 million to get His work done? No need to imagine or guess. Hear how Kevin Kempton is carrying out the dream and legacy of his predecessors. And hear his challenge to you.
Guest: Kevin Kempton
Links: United States Plastic Corp.
Stanita Foundation
Every Community for Christ
Mercy, inc. MercyToday
With AfterWords
Hear a thrilling report on the explosive growth of the Christian church around the world. If you think things are disappointing and discouraging about the Church in the U.S., take a look beyond our borders. You’ll see how God is at work in dynamic ways elsewhere. Hear compelling and miraculous stories of how He is fanning the flame of the Gospel by raising up fully devoted followers of Christ and sacrificial servant leaders.
Guest: Bill Vermillion
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
When you think of a place full of violence and crime, poverty and hunger, where do you turn for answers and help? That is the South American nation of Colombia, and people are really suffering there. So, where do we find resources to offer people hope for the future? Our guest says to turn to God’s truth and the principles in the Bible. She states and shows that it always works. Hear how.
Guest: Missy Christie
Links: Conviventia, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
If you ever thought that Christian people need to make a choice between going into “the ministry” or going into work or business, prepare to have that thought challenged. Our guest believes that work and business can actually be a ministry, can be just as important and valued as being a pastor or a missionary. He’s done both and has some valuable insights to share. See if you agree.
Guest: Erik Cooper
Links: The Stone Table, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
With AfterWords
Everyone is in favor of missions, Right? Well, that kind of depends. Sure, Jesus said to “Go! Make disciples of all nations", but what does that mean for a local church in Your Town, U.S.A.? Is it true that a commitment to missions can detract from the work of a local church? Is it true that involvement in missions can breathe fresh zeal into the life of a church? Listen for insights for your church.
Guest: Duane Brown
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Missionaries around the world put everything on the line to follow God’s call to share His love and truth in a foreign land. Their stories of servanthood and sacrifice are inspirational and heart-tugging. Yet, they would all say there’s no way they could do what they do without the “invisible force”. Of course missionaries pray for God’s daily enabling and guidance. But there’s another “invisible force” that they totally depend on. This one looks human.
Guest: Danny Beasley
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
The only way we can know the truth about God is by His direct revelation to us in the Bible. How else could we know that He is the Creator of the Universe and that He loves us and wants us to know Him? Many people groups do not have a Bible in their own language. It is the mission of Wycliffe Bible Translators to remedy that problem. Hear about their tireless work and wonderful results.
Guest: Russ Hersman Links: Wycliffe Bible Translators, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
When it comes to sharing the love of Jesus with people who need to hear, there are some pretty hard places to reach. Hidden tribes and people groups places without a Bible, regions that are hostile to the Christian faith. What about prisons? Criminals, offenders, people who have done some pretty terrible things. Hear about a dynamic program that offers a college degree to inmates who will learn how to make a difference – on the inside.
Guest: Amit Bhatia Links: Corban University – OSCI Extension / prisons , Mercy, inc.
With AfterWords
The COVID pandemic has had an enormous impact on people, families, cultures, and entire nations. What about the work of missions and reaching people for Christ during such struggle and difficulty? We are happy to report that the Lord's work continues, often opening new doors of opportunity that were not available before. Hear heart-warming stories of how the message of God's love is not just surviving but thriving.
Guest: Chuck Rapp
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Responding to Jesus’ Great Commission to “make disciples of all nations”, is definitely a team effort. And it takes all of us, working together, to get the job done. Some will pray for God to raise up people to share His love with others. Some will go; they hear God’s calling and respond with their lives. Some will give, providing financial resources to make it all happen. This episode is about giving that changes the world.
Guest: Steve Doggett
Links: Mercyinc.org, MercyToday.global
With AfterWords
The goal of Mercy, Inc. is to work with our partners to help people come to faith in Christ, and to help them grow in that faith. It’s happening all over the world and we are thrilled to be a part of that. The Bible says that’s God’s goal for people, and we know it as being “transformed”. It’s not just a system of beliefs; it is a profound change that affects all areas of life.
Guest: Matt Iavicoli
With AfterWords
It is amazing how much God’s people can give to His work if they just have the “will” to do it. Many good causes go underfunded when supporters neglect to take care of that one last act of generosity and stewardship. Having a kingdom mindset is the beginning. Getting the legal help to take care of business before you go to heaven is the follow-through. This encouraging and informative show is a must-hear.
Guest: Bil Smith
Links: TheSmithLO.com, MercyInc.org, MercyToday
with AfterWords
Men for Missions does great service projects around the world, but with the travel restrictions during COVID, their attention has turned to gathering teams for projects right here at home. Our guest tells about some of the projects in the U.S. doing some essential work that will make a huge difference in people’s lives. Don’t be surprised if you hear yourself thinking, “Hmmm . . . I might want to be a part of that”.
Guest: Bill Evans
Links: Men for Missions, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
(with AfterWords)
Jesus finished His work on earth with His death and resurrection. Before returning to heaven, He gave an extraordinary assignment to His followers. “Go and make disciples of all nations.” It was his command to extend the best offer ever given. Invite people everywhere to trust and follow me, and I will change their life in every way for now and forever. Hear One Mission Society Global president put it in his own compelling words.
Guest: Bob Fetherlin
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
What is Mercy, Inc. all about? Doug Hoffman, Executive Director, shares his heart about how compassion changes everything. If Jesus was here physically, is this what He would do? Where in the world does Mercy serve? What exactly do they do, and why? Hear how God called Doug to this work. Have you ever heard anything like this?
Guest: Doug Hoffman
Links: Mercy, inc., One Mission Society, Empowering Lives International, Bethesda Medical Clinic.
It is amazing how much inspiration and wisdom about business is found in the Bible! Sure, there’s lots in there about God’s grace, heaven and hell, life and death, and good an evil. But God did not leave us clueless when it comes to work and jobs and business. People who follow Biblical principles have a distinct advantage over all others. The advantage? God’s blessing! Hear it directly from these successful business leaders, Mike Sullivan and Bud Lindstrand.
Guests: Mike Sullivan and Bud Lindstrand
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday, MTG Covenant Partners
With AfterWords
When we hear heart-wrenching stories of how children are being used and abused, we want to stand up and shout, “Why can’t somebody do something?” Well, somebody is! Hear about some tough guys with tender hearts stepping into danger to bring children out. Their method is safe and secure and offers these children a whole new life.
Guest: John
Links: Silent Bridge, Mercy, inc. MercyToday
With AfterWords
How are things going in Haiti, you ask? Mercy has lots of work going on there and God is touching lives even through recent disasters, unrest, unending poverty and disease, and now the COVID pandemic. A team was sent to visit the schools that have the Starfish program. Lots of pictures, smiling faces, Salvation Story bracelets, and wonderful, heart-warming stories. Be informed and inspired as Bud and Cindy give their report. Listen with your heart.
Guests: Bud Lenker, Cindy Lenker
Links: Starfish Kids, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Every church should be a “Great Commission” church. If you’re not really sure what that even is, give this show a listen. Two challenges for these churches: 1) how to maintain a balance between local and global ministry, 2) how to organize and lead such a church. Pastors, leaders, and active members have lots to learn from Pastor Steve. Take notes and discuss with others. Every church can improve its vision and function. How can yours?
Guest: Steve Schellin
Links: Southland Community Church, MercyToday
With AfterWords
Take a world tour and get up-to-date reporting on what’s going on with Mercy and its partners. So much good is being done amid obstacles and barriers. The COVID pandemic has placed many limitations on travel and gathering, but amid all that, God is work! Region by region Doug and Rich share the stories of hope and inspiration being delivered by God’s faithful servants. Hear the latest, be encouraged!
Guests: Doug Hoffman and Rich Danzeisen
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With AfterWords
Education is sometimes rare and highly valued in regions of Africa. When parents see the importance of literacy and other knowledge and skills, they seek education for their kids to give them a better future. That presents a perfect opportunity for our guest and his team to offer quality Christian schools in and around Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia. Hear how this opportunity helps the mission team grow churches and make disciples.
Guest: Gordon Elliott
Links: The Evangelical Church, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
with AfterWords
God is on the move! Millions are coming to Christ, tens of thousands of churches are being planted, global missions are thriving. How can an American pastor and church see the “big picture” and become a meaningful part of what God is doing – in their community and around the world? Here’s a pastor who is doing just that. He is very experienced in the mission field, now leading a church in faithful and fruitful ministry.
Guest: Jym Gregory
Links: LifePoint Church | Indianapolis, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
What could God do if you gave Him your business? If all the profits were given to His work around the world, how would that change the atmosphere at work? How would it change office conversations and workers’ motivation? And how could God use $100 million to get His work done? No need to imagine or guess. Hear how Kevin Kempton is carrying out the dream and legacy of his predecessors. And hear his challenge to you.
Guest: Kevin Kempton
Links: United States Plastic Corp.
Stanita Foundation
Every Community for Christ
Mercy, inc.
MercyToday
Everyone who is called to serve the Lord in some specific way has their own story about how they got on the journey, and what happened along the way. Al Egg has led chapel services and Bible studies for some of the top names in sports as well as ordinary men whose names few would recognize. Hear the stories of a man who has said yes to God at every turn, and has been used mightily.
Guest: Al Egg
Links: MercyToday.global
The best way we know to share the love and truth of Jesus is to touch a life and meet a need. This program literally changes the futures of children in Haiti, giving them the best hope for success and achievement. Parents struggle to provide for their kids, and when someone steps in with some help, there are happy faces and grateful hearts. Hear some of those stories, and why it is so important.
Guests: Bud & Cindy Lenker
Links: Starfish Kids, Mercy inc., MercyToday.global
With AfterWords
Hear a thrilling report on the explosive growth of the Christian church around the world. If you think things are disappointing and discouraging about the Church in the U.S., take a look beyond our borders. You’ll see how God is at work in dynamic ways elsewhere. Hear compelling and miraculous stories of how He is fanning the flame of the Gospel by raising up fully devoted followers of Christ and sacrificial servant leaders.
Guest: Bill Vermillion
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
Our guest has been on eight short-term mission trips. She is an “ordinary” church member, mother and grandma, and friend of many. She followed her heart and God’s leading, stepped out in faith, and has been enriched beyond measure on these trips. Hear why and where she went, what she experienced, and why she believes others should pray about going also. If you’re “ordinary” and have doubts and fears, this episode is for you.
Guest: Katie Kalmbach
Links: MercyToday.global
If you ever thought that Christian people need to make a choice between going into “the ministry” or going into work or business, prepare to have that thought challenged. Our guest believes that work and business can actually be a ministry in itself, and can be just as important and valued as, say, being a pastor or a missionary. He’s done both and has some valuable insights to share. See if you agree.
Guest: Erik Cooper
Links: The Stone Table, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
The 7.0 magnitude earthquake in 2010 and Category 4 Hurricane Matthew in 2016 caused massive destruction to this already struggling little island nation in the Caribbean. As the people figure out how to live again, they desperately need help and hope. That’s where Bethesda Medical Center comes in. In this episode, you’ll hear some of the great things God is doing there and hear why.
Guests: Barry Yungblut, Julie Edler
Links: Bethesda Medical Center, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
When you think of a place full of violence and crime, poverty and hunger, where do you turn for answers and help? That is the South American nation of Colombia, and people are really suffering there. So, where do we find resources to offer people hope for the future? Our guest says to turn to God’s truth and the principles in the Bible. She states and shows that it always works. Hear how.
Guest: Missy Christie
Links: Conviventia, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
(With AfterWords)
When we hear heart-wrenching stories of how children are being used and abused, we want to stand up and shout, “Why can’t somebody do something?” Well, somebody is! Hear about some tough guys with tender hearts stepping into danger to bring children out. Their method is safe and secure and offers these children a whole new life.
Guest: John
Links: silentbridge.org, mercycompassion.org, mercytoday.global
(With AfterWords)
You wouldn’t think that being in prison would be a place to find restoration and purpose for your future. But that’s exactly what is happening through the life-changing ministry of Paid in Full Oregon. Hear a retired senior judge tell about his daughter’s murder, and how God is re-focusing his life to bringing inspiring change to the prison system – from the inside out. A university degree and a whole new future are offered.
Guest: Tom Kohl
Links: Paid in Full -- Oregon, MercyToday.global
(With AfterWords)
When God gets a hold of a person and gives them hope and opportunity, change happens! Lives, families, communities, and future generations can all be utterly transformed. What does it mean when a person is given the tools to break free from oppression and a hopeless future? That’s what you will hear on this episode. Prepare to be inspired, encouraged, and blessed, then push “Play”.
Guests: Jim Caya and Doug Hoffman
Links: Empowering Lives International, One Missions Society, Mercy, inc.
Mission work requires a lot of hands and hearts doing a lot of different things. Bud Lenker takes us behind the scenes to get a view of some of the essential tasks that help everything run. What went through his mind as he was falling 30 feet from a ladder? Hear what happened next. Did he hesitate to return to the mission field? He’ll tell you.
Guest: Bud Lenker
Links: MercyCompassion.org, BethesdaMedical.org, MercyToday.Global
(With AfterWords) Christian churches who are committed to the Great Commission realize that there must be a balance between reaching out locally and reaching out around the world. But it’s not always easy to find that balance. What is the role of the pastor, and how can we go about finding a God-pleasing balance? If you are a part of a church, how have you dealt with this matter? Listen to Dr. Brown to get some perspective.
Guest: Dr. Duane Brown
Links: Transform Your Mission, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
This episode answers a lot of questions about men going on a short-term mission trip. Sometimes unanswered questions can keep a man from stepping forward. Men for Missions Global Director (Kent) and a Regional Director (Mike) clear the air and provide helpful info and encouragement. As the uncertainties fade away, men are often drawn toward an experience of a lifetime. Men who go on these trips talk about it for years to come. Hear why.
Guests: Kent Eller & Mike Miner
Links: Men For Missions, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc.
The prison situation in Colombia, South America is dark and dire. Violence and overcrowded conditions make it nearly hopeless. But isn’t it just like God to enter into a dark situation like that to bring the bright light of hope? Inmates are becoming pastors, violence is down, and Jesus is moving among the inmates with astounding results. Many are coming to faith and are reconciling with their victims and their families. Listen and be uplifted!
Guest: Chris Williams
Links: Avocado Farm Video, Satura Colombia Website, One Mission Society Website, Mercy, inc. Website, MercyToday Website
(with AfterWords)
Missionaries around the world put everything on the line to follow God’s call to share His love and truth in a foreign land. Their stories of servanthood and sacrifice are inspirational and heart-tugging. Yet, they would all say there’s no way they could do what they do without the “invisible force”. Of course, missionaries pray for God’s daily enabling and guidance. But there’s another “invisible force” that they totally depend on. This one looks human.
Guest: Danny Beasley
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
With After-Words
When people are suffering and praying for relief, God hears their cries and sends help – in the form of people. In our COVID-riddled world today, Mercy, inc. and one of its partners, Every Community for Christ, are working together to answer the call. They not only seek to meet the physical needs of hurting people, but they also care for their spiritual needs by connecting them to a loving and faithful God.
Guest: Mike Dragon
Links: One Mission Society ECC, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Give: Donorbox.org/crisisrelief
(with AfterWords)
Jesus finished His work on earth with His death and resurrection. Before returning to heaven, He gave an extraordinary assignment to His followers. “Go and make disciples of all nations.” It was his command to extend the best offer ever given. Invite people everywhere to trust and follow me, and I will change their life in every way for now and forever. Hear One Mission Society Global president put it in his own compelling words.
Guest: Bob Fetherlin
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Empowering Lives, Int’l is giving thousands of African people real hope for a better today and a brighter tomorrow. Their extraordinary work enables people to crush poverty, embrace Christ, and pass their transformation on to others. Many people have a personal story about how God called them into a role they were totally not expecting. Our guest tells his story of that very thing. Proves a point: God gets His work done in unexpected ways!
Guest: Don Rogers
Links: Empowering Lives International, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
with AfterWords
Men for Missions does great service projects around the world, but with the travel restrictions during COVID, their attention has turned to gathering teams for projects right here at home. Our guest tells about some of the projects in the U.S. doing some essential work that will make a huge difference in people’s lives. Don’t be surprised if you hear yourself thinking, “Hmmm . . . I might want to be a part of that”.
Guest: Bill Evans
Links: Men for Missions, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
On this Best of show, we feature Pat Dragon and the work of Dynamic Women in Mission, a very active ministry in multiple countries. They are helping literally thousands of women embrace Christ as Savior, then to grow into all He has created and called them to be. It is inspiring to hear of the zeal of these women as they learn to take their faith seriously and to lovingly share it with others, resulting in the planting of thousands of new churches.
Guest: Pat Dragon
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
In this Best Of show we ask the question, "Everyone is in favor of missions, right?" Well, that kind of depends. Sure, Jesus said to “Go, make disciples of all nations”, but what does that mean for a local church in Your Town, U.S.A? Is it true that a commitment to missions can detract from the work of a local church? Is it true that involvement in missions can breathe fresh zeal into the life of a church? Listen for insights for your church.
Guest: Dr. Duane Brown
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Top leaders of Men for Missions tell the story of this remarkable organization. Partnering with Mercy, inc. men leave the demands - and comforts! - of daily life at home to go to another country to bring blessings and benefits to people they don’t even know. The personal rewards are extraordinary, and the good they do is enthusiastically appreciated. Many men have a hard time visualizing what such a trip would be like. Wonder no more!
Guests: Kent Eller and Mike Miner
Links: Men For Missions, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Enjoy this encore show: Here’s the recipe for successful mission work: Start with manpower and money. Put plenty of both into a project, add some compassion and courage, stir and cook until good results are obtained. This episode is about the power of funding to transform lives – and generations. Mentioned many times is the phrase “Business As Mission” (“BAM”). Helping people and families build sustainable businesses is remarkably simple if you know what you’re doing. That’s what Mercy, inc. does!
Guests: Mike Sullivan, Bud Lindstrand
Links: MercyToday.global, Mercy, inc.
Children of Venezuela desperately need nutrition and education. The Soy Satura project provides both – and a whole lot more. Hear how brave moms take their kids across a border to get much-needed help. When you hear how this brilliant program works for the kids, you’ll also hear how the moms get what is hard to come by. This benefit can make a dramatic change for the whole family that lasts for years to come.
Guest: Chris Williams
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
God is in the business of reconciling the world to Himself, calling people everywhere to repentance and faith in Christ. He isn’t shouting through the clouds to convey the invitation; He is raising up people by the thousands around the world to do that work, to carry that message far and wide. Many people have many skills and abilities, but will they step up, answer the call, and make themselves available? How about you?
Guest: Pat Dragon
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Pat Dragon works with Dynamic Women in Mission, a very active ministry in multiple countries. They are helping literally thousands of women embrace Christ as Savior, then to grow into all He has created and called them to be. It is inspiring to hear of the zeal of these women as they learn to take their faith seriously and to lovingly share it with others, resulting in the planting of thousands of new churches.
Guest: Pat Dragon
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
When people are suffering and praying for relief, God hears their cries and sends help – in the form of people. In our COVID-riddled world today, Mercy, inc. and one of its partners, Every Community for Christ, are working together to answer the call. They not only seek to meet the physical needs of hurting people, but they also care for their spiritual needs by connecting them to a loving and faithful God.
Guest: Mike Dragon
Links: One Mission Society ECC, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
How on earth can we “make disciples of all nations”? There is a powerful key that is being carried out around the world and will likely lead to the fulfillment of that Great Commission. Literally, tens of thousands of people are coming to faith in Christ and are growing in their life as disciples and Christ-followers. What is that key? The answer is in the title of this episode. Listen to what God is doing.
Guest: Mike Dragon
Links: One Mission Society ECC, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.global
Christian churches who are committed to the Great Commission realize that there must be a balance between reaching out locally and reaching out around the world. But it’s not always easy to find that balance. What is the role of the pastor, and how can we go about finding a God-pleasing balance? If you are a part of a church, how have you dealt with this matter? Listen to Dr. Brown to get some perspective.
Guest: Dr. Duane Brown
Links: Transform Your Mission, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Everyone is in favor of missions, right? Well, that kind of depends. Sure, Jesus said to “Go, make disciples of all nations”, but what does that mean for a local church in Your Town, U.S.A.? Is it true that a commitment to missions can detract from the work of a local church? Is it true that involvement in missions can breathe fresh zeal into the life of a church? Listen for insights for your church.
Guest: Dr. Duane Brown
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Jesus went to the outcast and rejected people of His time. Sick, crippled, blind, lepers, prostitutes, and all kinds of hopeless people. Truth is, that’s exactly who He came to love and to bless. A heartbreaking situation is taking place today in a South Asia refugee camp, and He is coming to those people in amazing and life-changing ways. Listen to how Christian people are reaching out in the midst of an otherwise desperate situation.
Guest: Special guests from South Asia
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Talk about a church on fire! But not the kind of fire that burns down a building. There is a movement underway in South Asia that has planted over 3,000 churches in a short time. Just what do these “churches” look like and how is it that they are multiplying so quickly? Is the Gospel being shared and believed? Listen to find out that the “fire” is in the hearts of the believers.
Guest: Special guests from South Asia
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday
The best way we know to share the love and truth of Jesus is to touch a life and meet a need. This program literally changes the futures of children in Haiti, giving them the best hope for success and achievement. Parents struggle to provide for their kids, and when someone steps in with some help, there are happy faces and grateful hearts. Hear some of those stories, and why it is so important.
Guests: Bud & Cindy Lenker
Links: Starfish Kids, Mercy inc., MercyToday
Hear a little story with a big meaning. A boy at the beach was saving some starfish at high tide, and a man came along and challenged him. Hear the rest of the story and the wonderful application to some great work being done for children in Haiti. You’ll be amazed at how little it takes to make a huge difference in a child’s life. You just might find yourself thinking, “Hey, can I help?”
Guests: Bud & Cindy Lenker
Links: Starfish Kids, Mercy inc., MercyToday
Some mission projects provide food for the hungry or medical care for the sick. Others provide agricultural assistance or fresh-water wells for villages. This one provides a skill that will make a life-long difference for the learners. You will hear how the program works, and you’ll meet some people with inspiring stories of the huge difference it is making in their lives.
Guest: James Kigamwa
Links: Bridge to Reading, Readathon Sign-up (link coming soon)
People all over Africa desperately want to learn to read and write in a language they know. Having those skill literally transforms their futures. This desire provides a great opportunity to offer literacy while building relationships of trust and respect, which opens the door to sharing the love and truth of Jesus. Hear the director of Bridge to Reading tell how it works and how the program is growing across the continent.
Guest: James Kigamwa
Links: Bridge to Reading, Readathon Sign-up (link coming soon)
The 2010 magnitude 7.0 earthquake and 2016 Category 4 Hurricane Matthew caused massive destruction to this already struggling little island nation in the Caribbean. As the people figure out how to live again, they desperately need help and hope. That’s where Bethesda Medical Center comes in. In this episode, you’ll hear some of the great things God is doing there. And just as important, you’ll hear why.
Guests: Julie Edler, Barry Yungblut
Links: Bethesda Medical Center, BMC FB page MercyToday
In a small island in the Caribbean, God is doing some amazing things. Life-changing things in people’s bodies and hearts. Sick people arrive at 5 am to get loved and prayed over. Then they are helped with their medical needs. Be inspired as the Chairman of the Board and a physical therapist share how God uses this medical center to help people and restore their futures.
Guests: Barry Yungblut, Julie Edler
Links: Bethesda Medical Center, BMC FB page MercyToday
The Bethesda Medical Center in Haiti touches lives and impacts souls. People served there say they receive more than much-needed medical attention. They are grateful for the healing touch of Dr. Rodney and his staff, and they are thankful that they also receive spiritual help and wholeness. Bodies and lives and families are being put back together. Futures are getting brighter and hearts are being lifted. Be encouraged and inspired as you hear what God is doing in Haiti.
Guest: Dave Graffenberger
Links: Bethesda Medical Center, Support Bethesda, Dave Graffenberger, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.Global
Haiti still feels the devastating effects of the 2010 earthquake that wreaked havoc on much of the little island country. Haitian life is tough and health problems leave many of the people sick and helpless. They turn to Bethesda Medical Center where they find extraordinarily caring hearts and healing hands. Hear about the exceptional work of this great medical facility and find out just why people come from miles around to get what they are offering.
Guest: Dave Graffenberger
Links: Bethesda Medical Center, Support Bethesda, Dave Graffenberger, Mercy, inc., MercyToday.Global
It is a great act of generosity and passion when a person contributes to the work of feeding the hungry and meeting other critical human needs. Even better is when the people being reached can be given the training and tools to support themselves and feed their families on an ongoing basis. These families become self-sustaining, bringing health and hope to entire villages and towns. Learn how this is being done through “Business As Mission”.
Guest: Travis Hamilton
Links: Stanley Tam, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc. MercyToday
Where would you find an accountant and a missionary in the same place? You will find them in the heart of our guest on this episode. He is committed to Christian missionary work around the world, but he knows there has to be money to make it happen. Hear where these two concerns come together. And hear what we can learn from Grandma’s front porch.
Guest: Travis Hamilton
Links: Mercy, inc., MercyToday
One principle of life proves true all the time. It doesn’t matter whether you know about this principle or believe it or not. It’s in the Bible and always proves true whether you believe the Bible or not. What we seek in life sets the course for how we think and how we live. Hear an extraordinary story about a man who learned this principle through great adversity, and is building a ministry around it.
Guest: Erik Fast
Links: M6:33 Capital, Abide, Unplanned, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
We usually think that mission work is funded by donations, contributions, and fund-raisers; a person or company provides money to a Christian organization with the hope of making a difference for good. What if there was a way to use investment (rather than donation) dollars, get a financial return on the investment, and still make a Kingdom impact? Most people don’t know about this option. You will know about it when you hear this episode.
Guest: Erik Fast
Links: M6:33 Capital, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Anyone who desires to do God’s work must have proper preparation. Yes, seminary or Bible school is important, cultural and language studies are a necessary. But there are two things that are absolutely indispensable if your work is going to be fruitful and fulfilling. Hmmm . . . what do you think those two things might be? You’re one click away from finding out!
Guest*: Chuck Rapp
*Bonus time includes Doug Hoffman
Links: One Mission Society, Shalom Africa, MercyToday
God is on the move, raising up people around the globe to be a part of His grand mission to reconcile the world to Himself. Whether one is tapped early in life or later, the work is challenging and rewarding. Here’s a guy who learned what it means to not retire from something, but to retire to something. His life is very full, and you’ll hear about his work in 27 African nations.
Guest: Chuck Rapp
Links: One Mission Society, Shalom Africa, MercyToday
When God gets ahold of a person and gives them hope and opportunity, change happens! Lives, families, communities, and future generations can all be utterly transformed. What does it mean when a person is given the tools to break free from oppression and a hopeless future? That’s what you will hear in this episode. Prepare to be inspired, encouraged, and blessed, then push “Play”.
Guest*: Jim Caya
*Bonus time includes Doug Hoffman
Your heart goes out to African people who suffer under poverty and oppression. But it is so widespread and has been going on for so long, what can anyone possibly do? Well, hear how Empowering Lives International is answering that very question. Give people the tools and training they need to crush poverty, embrace Christ, and pass the transformation on to families, communities, and future generations. Hear some stories of how it is working!
Guest: Jim Caya
Links: Empowering Lives International, One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
It is amazing how much inspiration and wisdom about business is found in the Bible! Sure, there’s lots in there about God’s grace, heaven and hell, life and death, and good and evil. But God did not leave us clueless when it comes to work and jobs and business. People who follow Biblical principles have a distinct advantage over all others. The advantage? God’s blessing! Hear it directly from these successful business leaders.
Guests: Mike Sullivan, Bud Lindstrand
From the beginning of time, as we read in the book of Genesis, there is great power in family. Throughout human history family has been for great good, but it has also led to hurt and evil. As we reach out to help people with the compassionate work of Mercy, Inc. the power of family plays a huge role. We learn that the God-given bonds of family can make all the difference in the world.
Guest: Rich Danzeisen
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
There is a vital key to helping people, whether it is meeting their pressing needs or sharing the love and truth of Jesus with them. Do you know what that key is? Listen to this episode to learn about it.
Clue: it has to do with understanding the bonds that people have when they share common ground. And what does that have to do with the work of Mercy, Inc.? Push ‘play’ and find out.
Guest: Rich Danzeisen
Links: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday
Come with us to a place where people are excited to be learning how to read and write. As we get near the African village, we see the group gathered around a big chalkboard, and they are ready to start. We hear singing and clapping. They are excited to be set free from illiteracy as a world of opportunity opens up to them. They are happy and grateful. Listen, and you’re there!
Guest: James Kigamwa
Links: Bridge to Reading, One Mission Society, Village Church Planting, Mercy, inc.
In most areas of the world, a person who cannot read and write lives a life of darkness and severe limitations. Literacy turns on the lights and liberates the person to vast opportunities they never had before. God has raised up a man to bring the gift of literacy to several African countries. Hear of the door-opening power of literacy, and how this gift can change lives in even bigger ways.
Guest: James Kigamwa
Links:
They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, what if a picture is worth a thousand souls? Or how about a million? Hear the story of how a picture of Jesus over Jerusalem showed up on a smart phone. A picture that wasn’t knowingly taken, but is verified as authentic and unmistakably clear and obvious. Hear how that picture came with an assignment and a mission.
Guest: Randy Butler
Links: Mercy, inc., Jesus Over Jerusalem
God is in the business of raising up people to do His work all around the globe. Sometimes that happens with one person here and another person there. And sometimes there is a cluster or a congregation that yields many people who respond to His calling. There is energy and passion there. You just never know who will be called next. And you know that God is up to something special!
Links: Mercy, inc., One Mission Society, MercyToday
Mission work requires a lot of hands and hearts doing a lot of different things. Bud Lenker takes us behind the scenes to get a view of some of the essential tasks that help everything run. What went through his mind as he was falling 30 feet from a ladder? Hear what happened next. Did he hesitate to return to the mission field? He’ll tell you.
Links: MercyCompassion.org, BethesdaMedical.org, MercyToday.Global
Mercy board chairman Dave Graffenberger was called to serve the Lord at age 14. Hear how he was protected by a circle of angels in a Haitian banana plantation. Just might give you the shivers! And how about his Dad’s prayer from 3,000 miles away? Little did he know that Dave needed the protection at that very time.
Links: MercyCompassion.org, OneMissionSociety.org, MercyToday.Global
Question: How does the life-changing work of Mercy, Inc. get done? Answer: God calls, people respond.
Doug Hoffman, Executive Director and Dave Graffenberger, Board Chair, talk about the work God is doing around the world and how He taps people to join His mission. Turns out that by God's enabling, ordinary people do extraordinary things!
Links: Mercy, inc., One Mission Society, Voice of the Martyrs, Empowering Lives International, Bethesda Medical Center, Jesus Wells, Shalom Africa, Bridge to Reading.
What is Mercy, Inc. all about? Doug Hoffman, Executive Director, shares his heart about how compassion changes everything. If Jesus was here physically, is this what He would do? Where in the world does Mercy serve? What exactly do they do, and why? Hear how God called Doug to this work. Have you ever heard anything like this?
Guest: Doug Hoffman
Links: Mercy, inc., One Mission Society, Empowering Lives International, and Bethesda Medical Clinic.