We had a very exciting, unique month of ministry in Australia. Still can’t believe we had the opportunity to serve in the “land down under.” We arrived in Australia towards the end of wet season so we had a lot of downpours and humid days. The heavy rain season this year made for some spectacular waterfalls and very green scenery!
This month we learned an important part of missions or ministry in general is service. Our contact this month was the Christian Outreach Center (COC) in Darwin, Australia where we served through the week. Service to the organization included working on a farm-feeding pigs and cows, making pig food, pressure washing sidewalks, cleaning hostel rooms, working in the kitchen, yard maintenance, painting, etc. .
Christian Outreach Center Farm
At first, I was overwhelmed and frustrated with the amount of physical labor we were doing compared to our other months of ministry. God convicted me and I was reminded of the passage:
Colossians 3: 23-24 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
I changed my attitude and began working with all of my heart. I followed the example of the Christian Outreach Center staff who work extremely hard, with all of their heart, no matter what the task. Their work brings them joy because they know they are working for Jesus and the Kingdom. The work that goes into the Christian Outreach Center helps fund about 5,000 missionaries world wide. They also minister to the local aboriginals, the Australian government, and local businesses and agencies with their integrity, strong work ethic, and use of biblical principles. The work ethic and positivity at the COC is very contagious. The more I worked with them, the more I enjoyed it. .
The Christian Outreach Center also houses and feeds aboriginals who come to Darwin for medical care or other needs. These people have amazing stories they love to share and provided me with insight into their lives in Australia and how they are in need of and benefit from the hope of Jesus. We held worship/prayer meetings with the aboriginals at least one evening a week. Many asked for prayer for health and other concerns. A few would approach us during the week requesting prayer. It was awesome to see their faith in Jesus grow.
Our team also helped with a Kids Club that meets on Friday Evening and Saturday Morning. The clubs included a Bible lesson, games, and craft time. It was neat to see children with different nationalities come together for Bible clubs.
Sunday Morning worship at the Christian Outreach Center included a service that lasted anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. The Spirit is definitely present and working in these services as people are coming to Christ, convicted and set free. A unique and powerful part of the service is a time for anyone to give a testimony of how God did something in their lives during the week. Our team shared testimonies, sang songs, and performed a drama as part of the services.
We had a great expereince at the Christian Outreach Center in Darwin, Australia. Please keep the Center in your prayers as they are raising up, training, and funding missionaries who are are spreading the gospel across the globe.
