To the Nations

From his porch, Emmanuel saw Mount Nyragongo's volcanic eruption. He, other Christians, and the Church quickly laid out the welcome mat and inspired others to aid the 1,000s of refugees. Generous hospitality of heart is a beautiful, contagious thing.

Do you ever wonder what Christians in other countries think of the Church in America? You'll likely chuckle and then find yourself thinking long after hearing Tsegaab's frank assessment of the Church in America.

If anyone knows you, it’s your army buddies. In this episode of To the Nations, Wheaton College Graduate School alumnus Alexander Macris reflects on the trials and blessings of his mandatory military service including the one-of-a-kind relationship-building he experienced. You may not go enlist in the military, but there are places where your life intersects and influences others.

Ginny prayed for a way to reach a special group of people with the truths of the Gospel and God led her to a very unique method. Her joy in the Lord is contagious; let her inspire you to consider what gifts and talents you can use to love your neighbor.

"God is for you!" is one of the uplifting messages from experienced missionary, educator, counselor, and all-around encourager, Margery Dickinson. Even if you feel like a limp celery stalk, you'll find resiliency tips to help you keep going and maybe even laugh along the way.

There are a lot of bad and sad stories coming from Chicago, but those aren't the only stories. To find them though, we probably have to look at little harder. You may feel that to be the case in your life as you look back on 2020. The difficult things jump off the page, but when you look again, you find the blessings. Pastor Keith Gordon will introduce a long-term initiative in Chicago that will invest in youth, expand their opportunities and allow for a more abundant life.

How are you feeling about your spiritual life and growth? Are you like a tree yielding fruit in season and not withering? Maybe you're feeling like drought is upon you or can't sense the Lord at all. Lisa Anderson-Umaña has been soaking up the Word of God and then overflowing tocampers and recreation facilitators in Latin America for many years. Watch out, you may get wet!

We have all probably been disappointed in spiritual leaders, so our discussion will be relevant as we hear Dambudzo Mushambi's (WCGS '18) insights into the Shepherd Bushiri story in the news. Bushiri is a self-proclaimed prophet and miracle-worker who reports over 6 million people joining live broadcasts. After being charged with fraud, he fled both charges and the country. This story from South Africa will prompt us to think through our own biblical discernment.

What kind of people kidnap a stranger on a bumpy road in Nigeria? Mike Van der Dyke's (WCGS '03) personal story is surprising in several ways. The world needs Jesus followers with foundations built on the rock of Christ. Allow Mike's testimony to help strengthen your commitment to Jesus.

The time is right for us to dig deep in our faith to build a foundation that will stand when persecution comes our way. An American missionary was rescued by Navy Seals October 31, 2020, but abductions that don't end this way are too common in Nigeria. Mike Van der Dyke (WCGS '03) knows from personal experience. Grow in your discipleship from hearing about the persevering Church in Nigeria.