MercyToday

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 September 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

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 CooperLinks: 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 EdlerLinks: 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 ChristieLinks: 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: JohnLinks: 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 KohlLinks: 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 HoffmanLinks: 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 LenkerLinks: 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 BrownLinks: 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 MinerLinks: 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 WilliamsLinks: 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 BeasleyLinks: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday 

With After-WordsWhen 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 DragonLinks: One Mission Society ECC, Mercy, inc., MercyTodayGive: 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 FetherlinLinks: 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 RogersLinks: Empowering Lives International, Mercy, inc., MercyToday

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 EvansLinks: 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 DragonLinks: One Mission Society, Mercy, inc., MercyToday