The Power of the Local Mission

When I was young, my small church would host missionaries annually. As they spoke of serving in distant lands, I remember vividly imagining the Serengeti’s elephants and zebras, or the Amazon’s crocodiles and piranhas. Honestly, I wasn’t too interested in joining their ranks though I’ve always wanted to see a zebra. 

Today, the “missionaries” I see are the over 400 dedicated people who give their time each week right here in Northwest Ottawa County. People with incredibly diverse skills put their faith, time, and hearts to work at Love in Action, processing food, advising clients, educating, picking up furniture and more.

I’ve been at Love in Action for ten years. In that time I’ve watched almost everything we do develop, grow, and change. However, what truly excites me is the transformation I see when people get involved as clients or as volunteers. The true point of mission is less about going to a foreign culture and more about working across lines — serving someone in different circumstances than ourselves, whether it is here or abroad. 

Love in Action was launched as a movement of the local churches of the Tri-Cities, and it continues today as a movement of individuals committed to serving Jesus by caring for those in need in our community. Often, what these volunteers share with us is truly inspiring. Jim, a volunteer since 2021, recently told me that his faith and perspective have grown dramatically due to his involvement in caring for vulnerable families. Their stories have profoundly impacted him. 

Each week, LIA operates with ten volunteers for every staff person. In 2019, before the pandemic, we had 150 weekly volunteers; that number is now over 400! Over 40 churches remain actively involved with LIA, and significantly, many clients who benefit from LIA’s services also choose to volunteer, creating a powerful cycle of giving and receiving. 

So here’s an enormous THANK YOU to the hundreds of local “missionaries” who give their time at LIA and across our community serving in ways that transform lives! Your gifts empower them to serve in beautiful ways. We could not be more thankful!