When Josh and Madison Oakes interviewed for service with the International Mission Board, they were told that, historically, in the region where they would be serving, it typically took 100 years of gospel proclamation before the message would take root and people would commit their lives to Christ.
The IMB needed someone to be the first 10-to-40 years of gospel presence. Josh and Madison would be tilling the ground and were told they may not live to see the fruit of their labors.
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As the Oakes prepared to leave for Central Asia, they asked partnering churches to pray 1 Thessalonians 3:1, “As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.”
Their church excitedly came alongside them in prayer and partnership, “holding the ropes” for them as they plowed the field. The Oakes are from a small town in the Midwest. At the time, they were the first missionaries to be sent out from their church and their county in roughly 60 years.
They’ve now been serving in their country for over a decade. Nearly nine years ago, they planted a church that has 26 members with four deacons and two elders.
“We came not expecting to get to do all that we’ve enjoyed getting to do over the last few years. The Lord has really given us unexpected fruit,” Josh said.
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EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Tessa Sanchez and originally published by the International Mission Board.
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