“So what is so international about International Media Ministries?” I have been asking myself this question recently. What make a ministry organization international?
Certainly, we point to all of our international activity. The programs we have produced over the years are being viewed by millions of people. We have programs licensed in over 30 languages. People from Russia to South Africa, from Iceland to New Zealand have received messages of hope about salvation through Christ. That makes us an international ministry, right?
How about all the training we have done? We send people to places like Bangladesh and India. We have established training centers in partnership with ministries in Romania. We are assisting in the establishment of a TV channel in Malawi. For sure, all of this activity qualifies us to wear the label “International”.
I have come to an understanding that doing things “out there” is not what makes us international. It has more to do with what is going on within us as a team and the attitudes we nurture. So here is what I believe are essential attitudes/practices of an international ministry.
Open your heart to people and their cultural differences
When Gwen and I were the directors of ISFM/Chi Alpha, we learned to be curious and ask good questions. Becoming a learner is key to opening your heart to people of other cultures. We are opening our hearts to the nations as we actively pray for them. Getting a heart for the world doesn’t happen by accident. We meet for prayer everyday and focus on one nation each day. One tool that facilitates this practice is the book, Operation World by Patrick Johnstone and Jason Mandryk, 6th edition (an updated 7th addition is now available.)
To open your heart also means opening your door. At IMM, we are looking for every opportunity to welcome people into our building. We, as a staff, are predominately American and the tendency to become an American enclave is a constant concern. Having both guests and staff from a variety of cultural backgrounds constantly in the building exposes us to the daily issues of being an international community.
Invite people to the table
It has been said, “If we always agree on everything then one of us isn’t necessary to the decision.” Leadership studies show that the quality of decisions most often improves when there is additional input from qualified people of different backgrounds, be it educational, social or cultural. When we are making important decisions about projects it is vital for us, at IMM, to gain the perspective of those who will be showing the programs in their culture. When we are planning events, getting ideas and input from those who might be participating from diverse cultures can enrich the effectiveness of the event and ultimately result in more people coming to know Jesus.
Humility wins the Day
In 1 Cor. 9:17-23, Paul shares his strategy for communicating the gospel. I see this passage as a pattern for my cross-cultural service. First, I must know who I am in Christ. Second, I must identify with the people I desire to communicate with. Finally, I must have the right motivation. All of this is wrapped in Paul’s humility to serve Christ.
Visual media can be enticing. Our work up on the BIG SCREEN is an allure. At IMM, we want to produce excellent materials and I believe we deliver on that desire. At the same time, we have no illusions about our programs ever making millions or becoming famous. Our motivation is simple. We want to put a visual gospel within reach of those who have yet to hear the story that changes lives. Developing programming for those people isn’t glamorous or lucrative. It is needed and so we hope to humbly serve the Lord to that end.
This, I believe, is what makes us international.
