Ministering Right Where We Are

March 1, 2002 - In 1981 I wanted to increase my service to God by extending my witness beyond my hometown. But how? In my sixties and a widow, I was pinching pennies to get by.

by Mena Uber, with Lucinda Norman

Then I learned that two missionaries were coming to visit our church. I offered them my two empty bedrooms.

That began my special ministry that my friends nicknamed "Mena's Global Bed and Breakfast." And today, with my spare rooms and my simple cooking skills, I still serve those who answer God’s call to take the Gospel to other places.

Since 1981, 71 missionaries from 16 countries have crossed my threshold. Some of them have stayed a week. A few ate home-cooked meals, rested a bit and left. My only requests are that they eat hearty, relax and sign my guest book.

My hospitality to missionaries has led to my praying for them, their families and their work. After they leave, we continue the relationship by correspondence. I learn about their families, and I keep track of anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, graduations and weddings.

I learn about their personal prayer concerns, the obstacles that they face, and individual people whom they are trying to bring to the Lord Jesus. Without leaving my hometown, I am a part of soul-winning wherever my missionary friends are.

I have learned three things from my ministry. First, God will show us a way—no matter our age or finances—to witness to Him. Second, we can expand our witnessing by helping, nurturing and praying for those who can go to other places to spread God’s message, even if we ourselves cannot go. Third, God gives abundantly to us; we cannot outgive Him.