For more than three years I have sensed God call me to begin a neighborhood outreach ministry in Kokomo. In 2004 I spent my vacation walking through Kokomo praying and seeking God's direction. As I walked and prayed I argued with God that what He was asking was impossible. I asked, "how can I leave a large church with a nice salary to move to Kokomo to start over", "how will I convince denominational officials that I am being called to Kokomo, "you don't do that in our system" and "why me?" The answer was clear, "if not you than who?" I consented and wondered how I would go about doing this thing that God was asking me to do.

God led me to the following Scripture:

Jesus sent his twelve harvest hands out with this charge:

"Don't begin by traveling to some far-off place to convert unbelievers. And don't try to be dramatic by tackling some public enemy. Go to the lost, confused people right here in the neighborhood. Tell them that the kingdom is here. Bring health to the sick. Raise the dead. Touch the untouchables. Kick out the demons. You have been treated generously, so live generously. "Don't think you have to put on a fund-raising campaign before you start. You don't need a lot of equipment. You are the equipment, and all you need to keep that going is three meals a day. Travel light. "When you enter a town or village, don't insist on staying in a luxury inn. Get a modest place with some modest people, and be content there until you leave." Matthew 10:5-11(The Message)

Since mid-June of 2005, my family and I have lived in Kokomo and the outreach ministry is beginning to take off. Many things have been accomplished already, I am amazed everyday when I see God work out all of the details. Almost every day I meet someone who feels called to be a hometown missionary or has a passion to work with those who need hope in thier lives. Excitement is rising and there is a great sense that God is up to something!