By Amanda Buck , OMS Europe / Middle East Communications
I jumped into 2023 with a huge challenge before me . I moved from my home and family in Colombia and landed in the beautiful country of Mexico to serve with Satura Jovenes ( Saturate Youth ), part of OMS ’ Circle of Silence ministry . Starting the youth ministry from scratch scared me , but in those moments of fear , I remembered God ’ s promises to be my strength . This helped me continue obediently carrying out the Great Commission , trusting that God would be with me . As I began , I asked the Lord , “ What do you want me to do ?” His answer : “ Share the love that you have received from me .”
So , I began the work , helping four congregations with their youth ministry , which includes training leaders , making disciples , and counseling the youth in these churches . It has been a privilege to befriend young people and guide them in their walks with the Lord . I have also shared the Gospel with people of all ages in various evangelistic activities . It ’ s beautiful to see tears in their eyes when they first hear what Jesus did for them because he loves them . Each person that I have had the opportunity to share the Gospel with has made facing difficulties worth it .
Another beautiful thing throughout my ministry in Mexico has been getting
to know the pastors and members of the congregations . Their love and care for me makes them family . Their companionship gives me strength in the midst of being far from my Colombian family . Each one of them supports me in times of discouragement and sadness . Their advice on how to adapt to a new culture , their willingness to challenge me to try new foods , and their dedication to carrying out the Lord ’ s work makes this mission possible .
The love I have for God and for each of the youth gives me strength to work week after week in the churches . Seeing lives transformed is beautiful .
I have completed a year of ministry in Mexico . Without a doubt , it has been one of the most challenging years of my life , but it has also been a year full of confronting fears , building faith , and strengthening love . I have seen and lived the mercy and power of our God and received encouragement from my brothers and sisters in Mexico . God has helped me to this point ; I trust he will continue as I move forward with his Commission this year .
photos , pages 22-23 : Ivonne , from Colombia , ministers in Mexico , with a focus on sharing the Good News with youth .
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