We received a note from GreatNonprofits.org informing Medical Ministry International that our Volunteers and Donors have helped the organization to be named as an Inaugural Top Non-profit for 2013. This is a special honor, not just because the Ministry was recognized, but because those that support and volunteer with the Ministry are the ones that made it possible.

Ministry work is hard. We deal with people in stress on a daily basis and we seek to do it as efficiently and effectively as possible. People that choose to engage with the ministry as Volunteers and Donors are the reason the work is possible. We are humbled and blessed that those that have served and supported the ministry would make the ministry eligible for this honor. This has never been about us, but about those we seek to serve. The reinforcement from our supporters that we are doing a good job means the world to our staff around the world. We want to thank you, and instead of just me, we thought we would let our team provide their thoughts….

“Being named a 2013 Top Non-Profit is a team effort. It reflects hard work and commitment from staff, volunteers and donors – prepared to go the “extra mile” to pursue the “best”! As a staff leader, I am thankful for donors and volunteers who helped us achieve this wonderful recognition of our collective efforts.”

“It is an absolute joy to be a part of Medical Ministry International. It is a great feeling to go to sleep at night knowing that my efforts of the day contributed to change people’s lives physically and spiritual. We are a part of God’s team and for that I am thankful.”

“We have an incredible group of volunteers! It is personally inspiring to see their deep-rooted commitment to serving the poor and I’m so thankful they choose us as their mission organization…

There is nothing quite like opening your inbox on a Monday and seeing tons of positive evaluations! It just reinforces that we are doing our job in service to the world’s poor.”

“We love how MMI volunteers and supporters value the active involvement of MMI leadership/staff in programs, projects, and health centers. Each person that supports the ministry has life changing stories that impact and changes lives, theirs as well as those they serve. The excitement shown by our supporters is a boost to our team and for that we are most greatful!”

“I would like to thank all the MMI volunteers and donors for helping Medical Ministry International be named a 2013 Top Non-profit by GreatNonprofits.org! You truly are the heart of MMI and I appreciate each and every one of you!”

“MMI is truly blessed to have so many dedicated volunteers and donors! Without your support none of what we do would be possible! A special thanks to our board of directors as well. They have made enormous sacrifices of time and resources to keep us be able to minister to the needy of the world.”

Last year, MMI was able to directly serve 542,000 people in over 22 countries and provide services estimated over US$82 Million. This only happens because of generous people that have given of their blessings to help us serve others. We are honored and humbled to be recognized by our supporters in this manner. Thank you and God Bless You for your support!

God is at the forefront of MMI, and through your support we will continue to do everything we can to be people of excellence and optimize the gifts that we have been provided in service for the less fortunate.

“Bow down Your ear to me, Deliver me speedily; Be my rock of refuge, A fortress of defense to save me.” Psalms 31: 2 During times of crisis, we have been given instruction to lean on God for strength and refuge….why is it so hard?

Tragedy is difficult, sometimes overwhelming for us all to fathom. Seeing the pictures of the devastation in Oklahoma is the latest reminder of how fragile our lives really are. These poor people were fine one second, and the next, their whole lives changed forever. It could have been any of us and I believe that it is a reminder for us all that God has encouraged us to seek Him, let Him be our rock when times of tragedy occur.

It’s interesting that we all move to God when a time of crisis happens and then slowly over time, we begin to drift away. Why? It’s not because we are all inherently trying to ignore others, but we are human and prone to get caught up in our own lives and anything happening elsewhere doesn’t affect us. Guess what? It does affect us!

We have all been given special gifts of intelligence and God has empowered us to make our own decisions. He loves us all, and is in pain when bad things happen. He also expects us to use our gifts to help those in need. Not just now, but always. Everything we have, has been given to us by God. It’s a gift, one that is ours to use as we determine. These gifts have an expiration, when that time occurs, we will be at the mercy of God for help.

If you think about it, we may lose many of our gifts during a horrific storm. We may lose our health at some point and become reliant on others to live our daily lives. The truth is, we don’t know when this is going to happen, God does. So what does all of this mean? Make the most of what you have been given to positively impact those around you, while you can.

It can be as simple as helping the family down the street that is in need. It may mean traveling to another area to provide help and love. The decision on how and where to help is yours, just be sure you use the gifts that you have been given to make a positive impact. We have seen first hand that the more you give, the more you get back in return. God doesn’t make this a hard thing, in fact, He rewards us all in ways that you can only experience when you do it. I tell people all the time that we have people that go to help others, and they return realizing that they were more impacted than those they went to serve.

At the very most, let us never forget that God is there for us all. Being “there” means that He will provide others to help us during times of crisis, and at times, use us to help others in need as well. Consider yourself a “piece of the rock” for which others can lean. God has provided us the resources, gifts, and skills, and it is our calling to use them to provide love and support. Seek God’s guidance through prayer. He will be there for you, are you there for Him?

We serve an all loving and caring God. That being said, He has given humans on earth the ability to make their own decisions, good and bad. When a tragedy like what happened in Oklahoma, many ask where was God during this devastation? The answer is…..He was right there, and still is.

A good example of this was when David committed adultery with Bathsheba and opened his family up to devastating results from sin. His family was wrought with deceit, and it even led to his own son, Absalom seeking to lead an army to kill him. All of this lead to David’s faith being challenged and in his own words….”Dry”. Devastation can do that to us all. People in Oklahoma are devastated and longing for God’s presence. Just as David did, we can find God and soul reunification during tragedies like this.

How do we do this? Focus on God, not your situation. In Texas, we might use the term “think about his for a while” or “ponder” on the subject. However you wish to do it, focus on God, not the tragedy. It is not really in our control to understand why tragedies happen, but it may very well be God challenging us to wake up and talk to Him! Use your time of discussion with God to reset your compass and bring God back into focus in your actions.

We all will face times of tragedy, some may lose a family member, others may lose their job, still others may just become lost and lose their moral compass. The great news is there is an answer, and it can be found while having a one on one discussion with God. He even helped us by sending Jesus to provide a guide to how we are to live our lives. Love one another, sacrifice for one another, and put the needs of others before our own. This is happening in real life in Moore, Oklahoma as people are dropping everything to search and hopefully rescue the poor people that were in the path of these horrific storms. Many of us were blessed to not have been impacted physically by the tragedy, but most have been impacted mentally by the sight of this incredible devastation.

Let’s take this time of tragedy and begin to water our faith with God’s input. Seek out His guidance, spend time with the one who is in total control. That is no way means He will not continue to challenge us with future tragedies, but in the end, the tragedy is a difficult experience, but our faith is actually what will be tested. Let’s not let these challenges knock us off our passion for God and to use the gifts He has provided to help those in need and bring honor to the blessings God has provided each of us.

It is now time to use this rejuvenation of faith to go make a difference in the lives of those around you. God has already provided for the people in need…..YOU and the gifts and blessings you have been given. We are on this planet a very short time, but the impact we make is a “tryout” for the all-knowing and all-loving God we serve. How you are to use these gifts is really up to you, but take the time to ask God to water your faith and provide the guidance to utilize your gifts to their potential.

The recent flurry of storms in the United States has brought an all too common reminder of the frailty of man. We are but guests on this planet, placed here by God to live our lives with the skills that we have been blessed to receive. These natural occurrences drive home the message that our time is limited and tomorrow could be the moment God calls us home.

Tragedy is all too common in our lives, and yet it is also a time of where the faith comes to the forefront of our minds. We see it in each story, whether it be the heroes of Boston, West, or the people who lose everything amidst a brutal storm. People of faith rise to the challenge to take on tragedy no matter how difficult the scene….why? Because, that is exactly what God has given us the skills to do.

Morality is an interesting subject, but in this case it is a core fiber that each person has within their persona. The question is, who will allow this fiber to be utilized in service for others. Does it take a terrible tragedy to ignite this passion? We are moved by terrible happenings that are around the corner, but when issues that are even more tragic can be prevented in a third world country, less people respond. It’s an interesting dynamic, but one that we face on a regular basis.

More people die from lack of basic medical care and poor nutrition than from any horrific storm. That doesn’t marginalize those that suffer, but it does highlight the need to engage in service for the less fortunate on a regular basis, not just when it is convenient for us. We also must seek to be in prayer for all of mankind that issues that we face, both natural and human initiated, are integrated with our faith and support from God. You can hope to control the environment where you live, but let us never forget that only God is in full control and every single event is meant to challenge our faith and test our ability to serve.

This is not meant to be a lecture, but a call out to all people of faith to engage in ministry. Ministry can be as simple as volunteering at the local shelter, or supporting others that can serve with your support. I pray that it is also a reminder that for every storm that comes our way, God is in control. What will happen is a challenge to us all to do our best to address and support those that are suffering. We also must not lose focus on the bigger storm, the storm of poverty. God has blessed you and me beyond our wildest measure and the real question is what are you going to do with these blessings?

There is a perfect stabilizer during times of chaos…..God. Let us never forget to place our lives in His hands and allow Him to calm the storm around us.

During a discussion today with a North Carolina Dentist at the North Carolina Dental Society Conference in Myrtle Beach, we were asked if we partner with other groups and ministries. It lead to a very good and lengthy discussion about how ministries and organizations can work together to achieve amazing things for the less fortunate.

Historically, many ministries that are founded within specific denominations have struggled to get along, much less work together. Why is this the case? Ministry…..the act of using the gifts that God has provided to serve others. This is at the core of any ministry, regardless of doctrine, as Jesus provided the perfect guide for ministries to follow. Love your fellow man, its that simple. Do we have to agree on every single sentence of doctrine in order to serve together, no.

I have told people for years that one of the most challenging aspects of running an international ministry is dealing with the challenges of culture and belief systems. It's human nature to have cultural beliefs that would be different or even come in conflict with others of the same denomination on the other side of the world. The great thing is that we can set aside these differences because we have a common thread that bonds us all, our belief in God. This is not just a statement, but a way of life that anyone of faith must follow if they are to make the most out of their gifts. Love one another and be flexible and God will light your path and make amazing things happen with your talents.

This core belief is especially important when serving in areas that have a totally different belief system. We serve people, regardless of faith and belief, why? Because that is what God has given us the skills to do. We are in service for Him and it really does not matter what those we serve believe as it is through our faith that God has given us the opportunity to reach out and touch their lives. Faith is a lot more than telling a good story, we live it each and every day through our actions and deeds. Jesus was the master at this as He used stories and actions to provide the guide for which His followers are to follow. It's an honor to be in His service and regardless of the faith of those we serve, we want to be sure that those we are able to reach see His love in action.

So, yes, we seek to partner with organizations, ministries, and governments that are of like mind to serve those that need help. Do we change who we are to make this all work? No. In fact just the opposite. We work hard to be people of excellence in all we say and do and bring honor to our God that has made all things possible. We will hold each organization accountable to its role in the partnership. If you see someone that is in partnership with MMI, you can be assured that they have agreed to the same level of accountability. Those that refuse to be accountable, we will still love them, but we will not partner with them or allow them to infer a relationship with the ministry. It's a pleasure to see what God can do with a partnership of organizations, ministries, etc. that work for a common goal and in turn He makes miracles happen before our eyes.

Setting up today for the North Carolina Dental Society Conference I was amused by the older gentleman in the booth next to the MMI display. He said, “Oh, no I'm next to a ministry! I am going to have to behave!” This was a funny comment and he and I had a good laugh about it. The funny thing is that we get this kind of reaction from many people and I can't help but wonder why?

There is a belief that people in ministry are not normal people. It's interesting how this has developed over time, but the truth is, we ARE normal people. In fact, we are the lady next door, the friend down the street, and the person you call when you need a shoulder to cry on. At the same time, we are also people on a mission….a mission of hope!

I meet people in ministry that give off this air that they are somehow better than others because they have chosen to be in ministry. Where did this attitude come from? You are just a person, just like all of us that has many flaws that you try to hide because of the “good” that you are doing. Is that what ministry is all about? I don't think so. Let's take a look at the best example of ministry ever seen on this earth……Jesus.

Jesus was a humble a man that sought to teach, share, and love all those He came into contact. He was not weak in any way and would engage those doing wrong while providing love to the less fortunate. He is the model that all ministries should follow as it must always be about those we serve, not us.

Another great example that Jesus provided was to keep building the team. We are at a Dental Conference seeking those that could join with us in service to the poor. There are many ways for people to engage, it may be through joining one of our teams on a project, or helping to train others at one of our Centers, or it could be providing supplies, donations, etc. so that others can continue the work.

Ministry is about people, normal people, that have found a very powerful way to share their gifts with others. The next time you meet someone in ministry, treat them like the guy next door. Encourage them and if motivated, join them to help serve others. You can make a huge impact both on them and yourself!

I am always interested in why people invest in organizations and businesses. In most cases, they have done their research and have developed a comfort with the organization and expected return. It's the same for Ministry and a subject I want to discuss today.

I am currently in Myrtle Beach, SC and spent the day today at the Ruth and Jimbo Smith Golf Tournament to benefit the work of MMI. We had over 180 players that came from international locations and states to help support the work of the ministry. I always enjoy the opportunity to speak with the participants and answer their questions. I am also intrigued with their reactions to level of accountability that we insist upon within the ministry.

This particular event is in its 5th year and has raised well over $100,000 for MMI's work in the Dominican Republic. Dr. Teo Beato, MMI National Director in the D.R. was also in attendance and provided many who have supported his work the chance to meet the leader of the team they have been supported. It drives home the message that there are real people doing amazing things in service for others. This group in Jamestown Plantation, NC has been a huge supporter of the ministry, and the support continues to grow. Why?

It's because of the value of the return on their investment. Many of these people will never have the opportunity to go serve in the field, but they are making it possible for others. One gentleman told me tonight that he started a foundation in honor of his wife who died two days after the establishment of the foundation. They were thrilled to see the investment of the foundation to MMI impacting lives in such a substantial way. He told me as tears filled his eyes that they were so thrilled to honor his wife by supporting work that she would have been so proud to represent. The man's daughter was there and tears were in her eyes as her dad told the story of how the foundation was developed and how MMI was helping to execute their desire to impact others.

It's one of my favorite opportunities to represent our incredible team to amazing people like this man and his family. They are in it for the right reasons and are a great example of why we are able to make such a difference for the less fortunate due to their help. Many of the people tonight expressed their confidence in the direction of the ministry and loved how they were able to follow the work of the ministry on a daily basis via Facebook. I was also excited to hear their excitment when they realized that 50% of our roles are non-medical. The typical response is “Hey, I can go do that!” Exciting! There is nothing better than to have those that have supported your ministry come and actually see the team in action and get involved.

If you are looking to invest in a ministry, be sure to take a look at how you can engage with MMI. I promise your life will change for the good and the investment will return dividends that are much more that anything else you could consider investing in.

Ministries all over the world were established with the best of intentions. Over time many have continued down the same path even though the world around them has changed. It is the duty of all ministries to take a step back on a regular basis and take assessment in who they are and what they do….

Why does your ministry exist? What is its strategy, focus, goal? Somewhere at its core is a foundation stone…the sanctity of life. The very existence of ministry is tied to the impact that can be made on those we seek to serve. These are people from all walks of life, and in many cases the poorest of the poor. The poor are not second class people, many are brilliant that are unfortunately spending most of their time trying to survive and not using God’s gifts to impact others. Ministries must seek to change this.

That sounds great, but how do we do it? Empowerment and love. As a ministry, we must seek to reach out to these people, help them get on their feet, help them to take care of themselves, and then invest in their skills. Just as we have so much to give, so do these amazing people that are dormant in their abilities, but with an investment in their lives, they begin to bloom. It’s just that simple.

This is in no way about entitlement, as those that think you owe them something are not those that will take full advantage of the help you offer. Yes, these “entitlement” types exist everywhere and ministries must filter through those they seek to serve and ensure that there is the proper accountability, standards, and metrics that instill proper oversight. Don’t just think you can throw money at the problem and success will occur. This is not proper stewardship, and in fact, can exacerbate the current situation even more.

We see many examples in North America and Europe where this entitlement mentality has firmly taken hold. There are those that believe that they have been taken advantage of over the years and thus due to this they are owed something in return. The U.S. Welfare system is a great example of this. The intention of the system is good, but the lack of oversight and accountability has led to a good idea being used in a way it was not intended. This support was designed to help people get on their feet, not create a dependent society. Ministries must be sure not to fall into a similar situation.

Ministry leaders, please pay attention to this call for accountability. Doing good work is not getting the job done. You must surround all your work with strategic accountability and assessment. Be willing to make changes in your effort when needed. Admit when a particular program is not achieving its objectives and re-focus your attention. These are God’s gifts and it is our calling and duty to optimize the ministry for service to those that when reached will thrive.

We celebrate Mother's Day this weekend and it is a time to pay respect to all Mom's. Many are blessed to have their Mom still with them, others may have lost theirs as life's journey continues forward. These ladies have all made an indelible impact on our lives.

A recent article in Total Health Magazine discussed the impact that mothers have on their daughters and it made some interesting points. I will share a single paragraph that revealed a lot and then you can go read the full article if you wish…Total Health Magazine Written by Jaqueline Lapa Sussman, MS, LPC

Society’s pressure and stress on women
Mothers are powerful role models for their daughters’ images of themselves. Daughters imitate and identify with their mothers in deep and powerful ways. This imitation is not conscious. A mother’s tone and body language programs her daughter with attitudes that affect her for the rest of her life. A mother who accepts how she looks, and has a healthy attitude about weight, wrinkles, and aging, goes a long way in helping to counter the peer and media pressure her daughter faces. Similarly, when mothers don’t feel they measure up to society’s beauty standards, they knowingly or unknowingly pass on those feelings of inadequacy to their daughters. Even the slightest comments that a mother makes about herself, such as, “Does this outfit make me look fat?” or “Oh God, look at the awful wrinkles around my eyes” will influence her daughter.

A Mother's job is never done, and yet the amount of pressure and stress that comes with the role is substantial. This example above should open many eyes to the challenges that these women face daily. It's instinct, but yet it is the internal power that God has given women to endure the role from childbirth throughout the rest of their lives. Incredible. I can't help but think of Mary and her role as the mother of Jesus and from the very moment of conception, her world became totally unique and such a challenge. We see this every day, or do we?

I would ask that after you have read this, and maybe even the suggested article above, that you take a moment to appreciate not only your own mother, but anyone that has ever been in this role. These are amazing women! We see mothers throughout the world, many that have nothing, and yet they find a way to provide not only the physical stability for the family, but also the spiritual and emotional foundation.

We are so blessed to be able to find these ladies and in many cases help address health issues that they have let go due to their priorities of taking care of their family. It is such an honor to give them the attention and care that they have selflessly given others and in many cases help them to go back to being able to do even more in the future…not because they have to, but because that is who they are!

Mother's Day is a time to honor these great ladies, if you also would like to honor your mother by changing the lives of other mothers, you can do this and send a card to your mom via our Gift Catalog. Happy Mother's Day to my Mom, your Mom, and all the Mom's that have been the foundation of who we have become!

The simple touch, the act of providing a cup of water, a simple touch….kindness, love, and the willingness to give so that others can get well. This is the very reason that motivates someone to leave their comfort zone and reach out to serve the less fortunate.

In 2012, MMI served over 542,000 people that were in need of medical care. This care was provided by volunteers and staff that live all over the world, yet came together to serve. What motivates someone to do this? Love. Service apart from their own lives. Each one coming to a realization that God has provided each a unique gift that was meant to serve others. What a powerful way to share your blessings with the world.

When you consider all the difficult stories shared each night on the news, why don't positive stories like this reach the same audience? It's really our fault. We have allowed society to dictate what reaches their view. It's time to begin to change this and get the message of love out to more people. The world needs to hear about the good. So what are we going to do about it?

Share your positive stories. Share the MMI story. Get the word out so that others can hear it. Take action. Volunteer and use your gifts to make a difference. We can do this one life at a time and also one story at a time. It will make a difference, love crosses all boundaries and a story of God's amazing work will trump any marketing presentation or news event. The stories need to be told.

Make a point to follow those that are making a difference via Social Networks, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Share the daily pictures, stories, etc. of God's amazing work. You will be amazed how far this simple act can go to change the impact of the work being done. Facebook would now rank as the third largest country in the world. That's a large audience that needs to hear about the Good in the World and you, sitting at home can make it happen.

God's love is perfect. The amazing work being done with the skills He has provided is powerful and an incredible example of the good that is happening every day. Let's join together to share the good, overshadow the bad and give others an example of hope that is occurring each day. The world needs hope, and there is no more powerful example that God's work being performed. Let the whole world hear!