Mercy Ships^®

Before there was "Video Calling" on Facebook, "FaceTime" on iOS devices, and even video conferencing on Skype, people engaged in "face to face." This is exactly how the volunteer team on the Africa Mercy, now docked in Sierra Leone, share Christ's love!

Healing the sick and encouraging the broken hearted, the crew of Mercy Ships^® daily lovingly interact on a "face to face" basis with thousands of people. Performing life changing surgeries and encouraging men, women and children, they tirelessly love those they have been entrusted with. They don't just stop there - they regularly give their own blood ...

There are things I take for granted. I easily purchase a bottle of water when I'm thirsty, turn the A/C on when I'm hot and video conference my parents (who are in Korea) just to say hello! I normally don't think twice about my actions because it is so common place! The same is true for when I decide to visit the doctor's office. If I don't feel well, I simply call my doctor and schedule an appointment!

Things aren't this 'simple' in Sierra Leone. Ranked 180 out of 182 on the 2009 ...

The greatest story of mercy in human history reached its climax over 2000 years ago on the cross of Calvary.  We celebrate Easter to remember what Christ has done for us, taking away the burden of our sins and restoring us into right relationship with Christ. God showed us incredible mercy by coming down to our world and providing healing for both our body and soul.

This is exactly what Mercy Ships^® is all about.  Not only have they followed the call of Christ by leaving their comfort zones to providing free world class medical care, they also tell stories ...

My parents grew up in the aftermath of the Korean War.  Food, clothing and shelter were hard to come by, making life very challenging.   It was because of the generous donations from the United States and U.N. that my parents were able to survive.  I know this is true because I have heard their stories many times!  I also know that if it wasn't for the complimentary handouts that helped keep my parents alive, my very existence would be doubtful!

Perhaps this is why I have an innate desire to help the poor and hurting.  When I think ...

And they're off! The Mercy Ships^® team hit the ground running in 2011!  Please take a few moments to read this post about their work in Sierra Leone, the site of this years field service:

Shortly, the advance team will be joined by the newly-renovated Africa Mercy, equipped with a new fuel efficient generator, ready to bring hope and healing.  I can't wait to hear stories about the lives that will be changed as a result of the skillful and loving hands of the doctors, nurses, and other volunteers on the Africa Mercy.

Although I am not able ...

Black Friday has already come and gone.  I know for many, it's a day about Christmas shopping and finding the best deals.  I don't know about you, but for me shopping, especially Christmas shopping, is all about blessing others. 

This is why I decided to sponsor an eye-exam through Mercy Ships^® this Christmas.  It just amazes me that this incredible deal is available all year round!

To think that world-class medical care is given to those living in the world's poorest places gives me a simple but profound joy.  I wish I could go and help these ...