Michigan: Adventist Frontier Mission
AFM: by Jonathan Show
Mission Track participated in a program at AFM(Adventist Frontier Missions) in Michigan. We had the opportunity to attend classes and engage in activities designed to equip us for future work in the mission field.
One particularly interesting and symbolic activity we participated in was riding a "backward brain bicycle." At first, we thought it would be easy, but none of us could even complete a full crank! This hands-on exercise was part of our training on how to handle destabilizing experiences—a key aspect of mission work.
We learned that things are often very different from what they seem on the outside, and mission work requires flexibility, humility, and cultural understanding. Our training focused on teaching adults, as they are the primary audience in mission work. We learned to first connect with what they know, destabilize their thinking, then guide them to integrate and apply new concepts. The backward bike was a vivid example of this process, representing the challenge of culture shock and the difficulty of adjusting to new ways of thinking and living.
Later, we heard from Dale Goodson about cultural differences, including how people’s logic can differ drastically from our own—like the "snake bum theory" (if you know, you know).
The week culminated in an outreach activity where we applied what we’d learned by talking to people at a local mall. Some of us handed out glow tracts and shared testimonies, while others handed out freshly picked apples. It was an exhilarating experience that felt like canvassing but much more rewarding, as we were able to connect with several people.
Overall, the week was an incredible learning opportunity, and I’m grateful for the experience and the lessons that will guide me in future mission work.
Michigan: Adventist heritage
Historical Adventist Village: by Keisha England
During our mission week at the Historical Adventist Village in Michigan, we served by painting the barn, priming a house, and raking leaves, helping preserve this significant site. We also gave tours to visitors, which taught us how to share the gospel and history in engaging ways. This experience reminded us that even the smallest acts of service hold deep meaning when done for God.
On Thursday, we were treated to ice cream at Moo Ville, a fun break that reminded us of the importance of celebrating fellowship during mission work.
Sabbath afternoon, we visited the cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices of Adventist pioneers. Their legacy inspired us to live with the same faithfulness and dedication in our mission work.
Overall, the week was a reminder that mission work is both practical and spiritual—from serving physically to sharing the gospel, every action can be a form of worship.
Arkansas: Uncle Leo's Ranch
A week at the ranch: By Katie Currier
For Mission Week, several of us traveled to Arkansas to help Uncle Leo, a man who has been involved with OA for many years. While there, we worked on various tasks: fixing three horse trailers, reinforcing a fence by putting up posts, repairing a truck, and much more. We also assisted Uncle Leo with caring for the horses and preparing them for rides.
It was hard work, but seeing Uncle Leo’s gratitude—and the appreciation of others—made it all worthwhile. At times, I felt like my contributions were insignificant. I was often assigned smaller tasks that seemed unimportant. But as I reflected on it, I realized that the small things can matter the most. Without those little details, the larger efforts would fall apart.
This experience reminded me of the Parable of the Talents. God gives each of us different responsibilities and abilities, and no one’s role is more important than another’s. Every task—big or small—has its place in God’s greater plan.
Kansas: Canvassing
Testimony by: Khen Ngai
Friday was our last canvassing day for the week. During my devotions that morning, I prayed, asking God to use me to answer someone’s prayer. With that on my heart, I went out.
That day, I was canvassing businesses when I stepped into a bar. Immediately, I wanted to run back out; the place reeked of alcohol, smoke, and the heaviness of bad choices. But I reminded myself, “Skip a business, skip a blessing.” Determined, I approached the owner and started canvassing, but they quickly turned me down. I asked if I could speak with any of the customers, and as I scanned the room, I noticed a woman sitting alone in a dim corner. Her face seemed so heavy like she was carrying the weight of the world.
Summoning my courage, I introduced myself and began sharing my canvas. But she looked up at me with the saddest eyes I’d ever seen. I paused and gently asked if she was okay. Her eyes filled with tears, and she began to open up. “I’m going through a really hard time,” she said, her voice breaking. “Suicidal thoughts fill my mind every day. I told God this was my last chance—if He was real, He’d send someone to me. I just don’t know what to do anymore.”
My heart sank as I took in her pain. At that moment, I offered to pray with her, and she accepted. I also shared with her a book called Steps to Christ, hoping it would bring her comfort. She decided to take it, and as I walked out of the bar, it hit me: God had answered my morning prayer.
It’s amazing how, even in our deepest, darkest moments, God is there—sending people to remind us that He cares.
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