UNREACHED

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!

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

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.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

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.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

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.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

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.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

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.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

Prepare to immerse yourself in a spiritual journey like no other as we engage in a profound discussion with Joel Hayslip and Pastor Rizera. You will be spellbound by the inspiring tale of how God transformed the lives of the Himba people of Namibia - a unique group who live without the trappings of modern amenities, in mud huts, lacking even a written language. Through the simple act of gifting shoeboxes filled with love and hope, doors were opened to these isolated individuals, exposing them to the PEACE of the Gospel.

Our dialogue ventures further into the miraculous transformation that the Himba community underwent. Witness the power of change as we recount the story of how the Himba people constructed their very first church building, an edifice that has had an incredible impact on their community. You'll also learn about BLESS and the 'Within Reach' scale (https://bless.world/PORTFOLIO-FULL/), an initiative designed to empower believers to lead their church and foster spiritual growth. 

Our concluding segment uncovers a testament to unwavering faith and God's provision, as the Himba people spread the Gospel across 94 villages in their homeland. Hear the inspiring story of a Himba individual who discovered faith through the Gospel's words, and now serves their community passionately as a Church pastor. Pastor Rizera extends a heartfelt prayer for all our listeners, an intimate moment that transcends language barriers. We wrap up this spiritual odyssey with a message of trust from the book of Philippians, reminding you of the peace that God's providence can bring and expressing our gratitude for your unwavering support.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

Could a simple shoebox be the key to bringing the Gospel to the ends of the earth? That's what we're exploring in our enlightening conversation with Samaritan's Purse representatives, Joel Hayslip and David Thompson. We celebrate the Advent season with Operation Christmas Child, a worldwide effort that involves over a million people and over 160,000 churches with the goal of reaching 11 million children this year. We light the Candle of Hope, symbolizing our belief in Jesus' coming and our commitment to extending His kingdom to all nations.

Imagine reaching out to about 7,000 "unreached" out of 17,000 global people groups with the Gospel. Our guests, Joel and David, share inspiring stories of how this monumental task is being undertaken. We're especially moved by the story of a pastor in Madagascar who reached out to 15 villages that had never heard the Gospel. We also delve into the transformative power of the Greatest Journey discipleship program and how it's changing lives in places far and near.

The role of the local church can't be overemphasized. We discuss how the church is crucial in accomplishing Jesus' Great Commission and how Samaritan's Purse is investing in equipping national leaders who understand the local language and culture. We also highlight how the Bless Foundation provides additional funding and support to churches and missionaries. To wrap up, we reflect on the power of prayer in the mission field, and pray for the billions who still need to hear the good news of salvation. Join us on this incredible journey of faith, hope, and love.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

Do you ever wonder about the work done to spread Christianity to the farthest corners of the world? Allow us to introduce you to Amy and Al from the Strategic Resource Group (SRG), a team that has poured over $220 million into Christian initiatives in regions like the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. They're making strides in reaching Unreached People Groups (UPGs) and translating the Bible into 34 different languages in these areas.

Our conversation with Amy and Al takes us through the vital work of connecting with believers from Muslim backgrounds, challenging their preconceived notions, and witnessing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. We discover how technology is a game-changer in Bible translation, speeding up the process and making the divine Word of God more accessible. Their narratives will enthrall you, from stories of house churches to the brave efforts of those working in the field despite the dangers.

Lastly, we navigate the profound journey of Bible translation and the stirring tales of the people involved. Understand how the SRG team innovates to maintain the accuracy of translations, despite hurdles like A.I. limitations and spiritual warfare. Hear heartening stories of individuals whose lives have been forever altered through this process, including a former Muslim now spearheading a project to reach his people with the scriptures. We conclude with a heartfelt prayer for those worldwide championing translation efforts, seeking divine protection and abundant resources for their noble mission.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].

Imagine a world where clean water is a scarce commodity, where two out of every seven people struggle to access this basic necessity of life. That's the reality Scott Linebrink, a former Major League Baseball player turned humanitarian, grapples with every day in his work with Water Mission. From his first mission trip to Honduras to a life-altering visit to Haiti, we trace Scott's journey from the baseball diamond to the heart of the global water crisis. We unravel the stories of hope and despair that fuel his passion to show God's love by addressing physical needs and making a lasting impact on people's lives.

As we explore Scott's experiences, we journey to refugee settlements in Southeast Africa. There, against a backdrop of heart-wrenching stories, Scott shares the tale of a woman named Esther who nearly took her life after losing everything. But the story doesn't end there; Scott also walks us through the power of collaboration between Water Mission, United Nations, and other NGOs in delivering life-saving aid to these settlements. We also contemplate the potential of mission work, examining the impressive impact of initiatives like Operation Christmas Child, the Global Water Center, and the Strategic Resource Group in reaching unengaged people groups around the globe.

Wrapping up our in-depth conversation, we tackle the notion of impact investing for sustainable water projects. Scott shares insights on how financial stability can motivate adherence to clean water standards and the pivotal role technology plays in measuring project outcomes. We discover how providing access to clean water can be a springboard for other social initiatives such as medical care, education, and housing. Lastly, we delve into Water Mission's three-lane approach to fostering long-term sustainability in poverty-stricken communities. This episode is not just about the power of clean water; it's about faith, community collaboration, and reaching the unreached.

A note from our team here at UNREACHED... 

If this podcast adds value for you, and we hope it does, would you please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
Also SHARE with your family, your friends, your church, your life group, small group, D group, wherever you do life.
And if you want to connect with us, find us on Instagram @unreachedpodcast or email us at [email protected].