Hello! I'm so excited to start this journey of working with OMF's Diaspora team! Diaspora is kind of a weird word that I didn't understand at first, but basically, it means "scattered population" OMF partners with colleges and churches in the US with Asian communities that have come to Christ while they were here. Most of the time those people are here as international students, or on a job assignment and they will eventually go back to their home country. We work to prepare them to thrive back home in an area where Christianity is scarce or even forbidden in some areas. We want to make sure these new Christians are properly equipped to carry out their relationship with Jesus and also share with others.
How important do you think it would be to be properly equipped, encouraged, and supported as a new Christian? Have you ever been on a job and not felt properly trained before starting work?
Can you imagine the pressure of going back to a community where Christianity is scarce after you've found hope in Jesus yourself? For many of these Asians returning to their homelands, that is their reality. They are going back into communities where Christianity is not accepted, the hope of Jesus has not been found. OMF works to keep these people encouraged, engaged, and plugged in. Communications is a vital role in being able to help these people, however, it's also a tricky challenge because we can't be too open about what we're doing or we risk their safety or the safety of our missionaries living long term in those East Asian countries. It is a bit of an uphill battle, but through the long-standing connections OMF has made over the last 150 years, we've got the advantage of a strong network of people and resources on both the US side and the Asian countries.
The ultimate goal is that these Asians are able to return home, continue their journey and relationship with Christ, and then also share the gospel with others in their homeland. We know that coming to Christ often takes someone you trust, someone you have a relationship with, sharing their stories. So often it's easier for these natives that come back home to win moreover for the Kingdom. And ultimately we want to see more hearing the gospel and coming to know Jesus.
Romans 10:14-15 How, then, can they call on the one they
have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom
they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone
preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are
sent? And it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who
bring good news!"
If you feel led to partner with me or know more about my journey,
I'd love for you to connect with me!
