Have you ever longed to trace the footprints of early Christians beyond the well-trodden apostolic paths? Join us as Andrew Scott returns to uplift our spirits with tales of the global mission field, from his humble beginnings in Northern Ireland to his impactful endeavors with OM on a mission ship. Our conversation doesn't just admire the apostles' work in the Book of Acts; it honors the unsung heroes — ordinary believers whose daily lives told a story of faith that echoed through the generations. Discover how their narrative is not just history, but a catalyst for today's mission to reach those who have yet to hear the gospel.

As we navigate through time from the early church to modern-day spiritual landscapes, we marvel at Christianity's explosive growth, particularly in regions like China and Iran. We pay homage to the pioneering Moravian missionaries who set a stirring example of dedication. Yet, in the midst of celebration, we recognize an urgent call to action for the church to rise anew, refocusing on the vast fields ripe for harvest. This episode is not only a historical journey; it's an invitation for you to join a movement longing for more hands to share the love of Christ worldwide.

Wrapping up, we delve into the core of our Christian identity, pondering the profound implications of living out our divine purpose. Through prayer, we seek wisdom for leaders like Andrew and for the global church as it steps into a new era of leadership and mission. This episode is a soul-stirring call to embrace our role as God's image bearers, to weave our threads into the rich tapestry of His redemptive story, and to walk in the wisdom that guides us to the frontiers where His light shines brightest.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Embark on an extraordinary voyage with Andrew Scott, CEO of OM, as he recounts his transformative journey from a small Northern Irish town to leading a pioneering global mission movement. His personal saga begins with pivotal encounters with missionaries, kindling a fervent commitment to the gospel that would see him join OM's mission ship at just 19. Throughout this episode, Andrew delves into the life-changing power of mission work and the vital importance of reaching those who have yet to hear the gospel's message.

The conversation seamlessly transitions into the ongoing evolution of mission work, reflecting on the historical context of the early church and comparing it to the modern digital age's opportunities. Andrew illuminates the impact that ordinary believers can make when they weave their faith into their professional lives. He shares uplifting tales of non-traditional missionaries, from tech-savvy evangelists to Filipino workers in the Muslim world, all embodying the diverse expressions of God's mission through their unique talents and vocations.

Our dialogue culminates by exploring our intrinsic identity and purpose within God's grand narrative. Andrew guides us through understanding how our Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences (SHAPE) can be harnessed to fulfill our God-given roles. Rejoice in the realization that embracing our divine design equips us to contribute meaningfully to the world, all while living out our callings with courage and heartfelt gratitude. Join us in this profound reflection that not only encourages but empowers listeners to participate in God's mission with the unique blueprint He has entrusted to each of us.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Can your unique skills contribute to a purpose far greater than your day-to-day work? Scott Eloquin from Switchboard joins us to share his powerful testimony of transitioning from a successful software career to fulfilling his zeal for mission work, proving that our abilities, when made available, can have an eternal impact. This episode is a testament to the fact that the road to missionary work is open to all, regardless of professional background, and that a heaven as diverse as envisioned in Revelation 7 can only be achieved when each of us plays our part.

We uncover the heartwarming stories of individuals and organizations who have found their calling through Switchboard, like the family who used their experience with autism to support field workers in Ukraine. Their stories illuminate the profound connections and transformations that occur when we volunteer our time and expertise to those in need. Scott and I discuss the essential role of local churches, businesses, and the faith community at large in nurturing these connections, and how every skill—be it digital marketing or AI—can be harnessed to further the Kingdom.

To wrap up, we delve into the exciting intersection of faith and technology—where even an hour-long mission trip can be virtually traveled, and where your expertise can reach corners of the globe you've never set foot in. We dissect the innovative ways that today’s believers, especially the tech-savvy youth, can use their digital prowess to support global outreach, and we highlight the potential for businesses to align with mission work. Our conversation is not just an overview; it's a clarion call to action, inviting you to reflect on how you might use your talents to leave a lasting Kingdom legacy. Join us on this episode for an inspiring look at the future of mission work in an interconnected world.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Join us for PART 2 of our incredible conversation with David and Emily Rimestad.

Embarking on a mission to an unfamiliar land comes with its share of trepidation and thrill. Imagine the awe as my guests, David and Emily, along with their family, were enveloped by the open arms of the Maliyali people amidst the untamed beauty of Papua New Guinea. Their voices, rich with emotion, recount the tale of building not just homes, but bonds, and the fascinating dance of learning a new language to share the deepest parts of their faith.

As the Maliyali's avid curiosity for the Gospel grew, so did the intimacy of our conversations, reaching into the soul of a culture untouched by our modern-world narratives. The poignancy of their spiritual hunger, as shared by Emily, is a poignant reminder of the universal quest for divine connection. Their journey, peppered with challenges and triumphs, encapsulates a story that's far more than the sum of its parts—illustrating the resilience of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of purpose.

In closing, we bear witness to an incredible transformation—a community, once isolated by geography and culture, now united in fellowship through faith. The Maliyali's declarations of belief, interwoven with David and Emily's reflections, are a powerful testament to the enduring impact of dedication and love. This episode isn't merely a narrative; it's an invitation to explore the profound ways in which faith transcends barriers and touches the very essence of humanity. Join us as we celebrate the light of hope that glimmered within the hearts of the Maliyali and the unwavering spirit of those who journeyed to bring it forth.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

When David Rimestad encountered a spiritual revelation at summer camp, little did he know it would steer him toward the remote villages of Papua New Guinea. Alongside his wife Emily, whose heart for missions was kindled during a youth group trip, this episode takes you through their extraordinary journey of faith and the challenges of bringing the Gospel to the Maliyali people. Our conversation with the Rimestads is a deep dive into the sacrifices and unwavering determination that define true missionary work.

Have you ever pondered what it takes to leave everything familiar behind and start anew in a land unknown? The Rimestads did just that, embracing frugality and overcoming personal fears—like David's dyslexia and Emily's fear of the dark—to prepare for their life's mission. Their narrative is not just about the logistics of missionary work but the profound impact of translating languages and spreading teachings in a culture vastly different from their own. This episode is a testament to the couple's dedication and the transformative power of shared love and faith.

Imagine the anticipation of first contact with an isolated tribe, the Mali Ali, who have never encountered outsiders. The Rimestads recount the initial hurdles in communication, the physicality of reaching the village, and the cultural nuances that emerged as they strived to build rapport with the people. As we trace their steps from the first tentative interactions to the community's eagerness to learn and grow, their story unfolds into a tapestry of human connection, cultural exchange, and the shared desire for knowledge that transcends borders. Join us as we explore the beauty and complexity of forging bonds with the Maliyali tribe.

Come back next week for PART 2 of our incredible conversation with the Rimestads!

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Embark on a profound journey of faith with Heath Hale as we trace the origins and blossoming of Bless, a nonprofit dedicated to reaching and resourcing unreached people groups. His mobilization from a pivotal church course to harnessing his auctioneering talents for a higher calling embodies the essence of faith in action. As he shares his narrative, we're reminded of the unexpected paths that lead us to serve the world in ways we never imagined.
 
 Throughout our heartfelt conversation, we unpack the growth and trials of Bless Foundation's nonprofit journey, discussing how moments of quiet reflection and recalibration have deepened our dedication to spreading hope and the Gospel. The collaborative spirit that drives our mission shines through in stories of long-term investments in Bible translation and church planting. You'll be moved by the tales of communities transformed and partnerships forged in the quest to include every tribe and tongue in the embrace of God's love.
 
 As we step into a New Year, the importance of community and shared purpose stands as a beacon of inspiration. With tales of life-saving water wells in South Sudanese refugee camps and arduous treks through the Himalayas, the episode underlines the tangible impacts of our work. We encourage you to connect with this story of unwavering faith and to consider your role in a mission that reaches across borders and hearts, aspiring to a world where no community remains unreached.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

When the world is shaken by disaster, where can hope be found? John Peays, Regional Director for Western Africa Partnerships at Samaritan's Purse, joins us to share his profound journey from the corridors of finance to the very heart of humanitarian aid. With remarkable stories from central Sudan to the scars of Rwanda, John and his wife have embraced the call to serve with Samaritan's Purse, illuminating the darkest corners of human suffering with compassionate action and steadfast faith. Their unwavering dedication not only addresses physical needs but also fosters the growth of healthy churches, serving as the tangible hands and feet of Christ across the globe.

The intricacies of responding to disasters come to light as John unravels the complexities behind Samaritan's Purse's life-saving missions. From the immediate deployment of a 52-bed hospital near the Syrian border to the sophisticated coordination required for the Beirut explosion relief, discover how rapid assessment, strategic resource allocation, and the indispensable partnership with local churches combine to form a resilient front against calamity. The podcast peels back the layers of these logistical feats, revealing the heartbeat of an organization committed to bringing relief and rebuilding hope amidst the chaos.

In the spirit of spreading joy, we explore the far-reaching influence of Operation Christmas Child, a Samaritan's Purse initiative that intertwines gift-giving with the message of the gospel. We unpack how this project not only touches the lives of children worldwide but also strengthens the global church through its 12-week discipleship program. John recounts the transformative impact of this initiative in remote Madagascar, illustrating how simple shoebox gifts can break through barriers of darkness. As our conversation draws to a close, we ground ourselves in prayer, uniting in a shared desire to see a world illuminated by the love and glory of Christ.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Have you ever stood in awe of the resilience and faith of those dedicated to spreading the Gospel in the world's most remote and challenging regions? This year, we’re back to share the extraordinary tales of those serving on the front lines of faith. As our UNREACHED PODCAST Producer Clint and I reflect on our previous encounters, we highlight the stirring dedication of missionaries like Jack Crabtree and Kirby Holmes, who prove that language barriers and warzones are no match for the universal power of God’s word. Their stories resonate with a deep commitment that inspires us to re-evaluate our own life missions.

During our conversations, we're left speechless by the incredible accounts of spiritual dreams occurring in the Middle East, a phenomenon that guest John Samara helps us explore. Imagine the profound impact of a young lady's testimony about a man in white guiding survivors through the rubble of an earthquake, or the intense curiosity sparked by the question, "Are you people of the Messiah?" These narratives not only bring us closer to understanding the omnipresence of divine encounters but also challenge us to open our hearts to the unexpected ways God communicates his love and direction.

Journey with us this season as we traverse the globe, from South Sudan to the mountains of Papua New Guinea, bringing you stories of God's kingdom expanding through the voices and prayers of those called to serve. Your role in this mission is invaluable, and we're eager for you to connect with these narratives – to find inspiration, be moved to prayer, or discover ways to engage directly with the cause. Let's stand together in faith, emboldened by the testimonies of those reaching every corner of the earth with the message of hope.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

As the Advent season ushers in a time of giving and reflection, our latest podcast episode is a beacon of light, showcasing the boundless power of love and generosity. Joined by the inspiring David Thompson and the passionate Gracie O'Loughlin, Samaritan's Purse and Operation Christmas Child, we uncover the joy that springs from touching lives across the globe. From Gracie's Thanksgiving in Atlanta & Lower Alabama, packing shoeboxes for children in need, to David's eye-opening experiences in Ghana and Ecuador, their stories are vivid reminders of how profound an impact we can have. 

The spirit of the season truly shines through as we explore the behind-the-scenes of Operation Christmas Child. Imagine thousands of volunteers, from various walks of life, all converging with a single purpose: to deliver not just gifts, but hope and the gospel message. Gracie's tales from the packing centers to her strategic partnership efforts embody the essence of Christmas giving. And it doesn't stop there — we learn about the heartening journey of a Tanzanian girl named Agnes, whose life was transformed through a simple shoebox, igniting a chain of faith that continues to spread within her community.

Our discussion takes a meaningful turn as we examine the often overlooked need for strategic resource allocation within the Christian mission. It's a thought-provoking look at how our collective efforts can create an eternal ripple, and the call for a paradigm shift towards reaching those who have yet to hear the gospel. The episode culminates in a prayerful reflection for guidance and strength on our listeners' own paths within the kingdom's work. As Christmas draws near, we're reminded of the true power of partnership, healing, and the simplest acts of kindness — all of which have the potential to open doors to lasting faith and fulfillment.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!

Have you ever wondered about the journey of a simple shoebox? Together, with our special guests - Maggie, Kimberly from Samaritan's Purse, and Clint - we unravel the touching journey of shoeboxes filled with gifts from the generous hands of donors to the overjoyed grip of a child. Hear the moving tale of a child in Malawi who, despite receiving a once-in-a-lifetime gift of a giant sucker, chose to share it with his entire community. Journey with us, as we follow the story of a small church in Texas that packed over 8,000 shoeboxes amidst a devastating hurricane, and Bill, an atheist, who felt moved to pack a shoebox after noticing the Operation Christmas Child signage. 

We don't stop there. We delve into the multifaceted process of Operation Christmas Child, from packing to shipping the shoeboxes, and highlight the intense dedication, commitment, and prayer needed to overcome hurdles like government importation clearance. We witness the transformative power of The Greatest Journey, a discipleship program by Operation Christmas Child, and understand its profound impact on children globally. You'll be inspired by children in the Philippines who, after receiving their shoebox gifts, are now full-time volunteers and trainers for the program.

As the Advent season approaches, we find joy in the act of giving and sharing. The joy of a child unwrapping their shoebox gift, the joy of a community coming together to pack gifts, and the joy of seeing the love of God spread to the unreached. The themes of joy, generosity, and God's love are intertwined throughout our discussions. So, we invite you to join us, as we light the candle for joy and share these heartwarming stories that truly embody the spirit of Christmas.

Follow @unreachedpodcast on Instagram for more!