Friday, February 24, 2012

What is Mercy Ships?


The mission statement of Mercy Ships is to "[follow] the 2000-year-old model of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the world's forgotten poor." Mercy Ships is an international, charity organization that travels on a ship and offers free medical, educational, and nutritional services as well as many others.  Mercy Ships has been operating since 1978 and has served over 70 nations such as Togo, Sierra Lione, and Haiti.

Mercy Ships is a way that God shows His compassion and love.  One of the most wonderful things that I learned about Mercy Ships is its history and how it all began.  During a hurricane in the Bahamas in 1964, a person prayed for a ship that could travel to disaster hit places and  deliver aid and hope.  You see, most people experiencing a hurricane would quickly become angry with God and question "why did you let this happen" or "why do many innocent people have to be hurt?"  However, God's plan is greater and God is and sees beyond the present circumstance.  The prayer for a ship was made by a person who relied on God and let her circumstance be an opportunity for growth and inspiration.  This prayer was heard by Don Steven, who was inspired by the Holy Spirit and made it his life goal to see a ship deliver aid and hope.  He opened his eyes to the possibilities and to God's incredible abilities.  Don Steven is the Founder of Mercy Ships.   God placed the right people together at the perfect time.  

The website for Mercy Ships is MercyShips.org. Feel free to look around and learn more about its history, work, and what Mercy Ships represents. There are different ways volunteer and donate to this organization. Also, here is a YouTube Video of it's history! I loved it :)  http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LZk7pABJd94


Be blessed!



Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.