From Calling to Commission: How Africa Freedom Mission Inspired My Journey into Missions
There are moments in life that shift your entire perspective, times when God plants a seed so deep it changes the trajectory of everything. For me, that moment came through my experience with Africa Freedom Mission (AFM). What started as a simple step of obedience became a pivotal turning point in my calling to missions.
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
Africa Freedom Mission is an organization passionately committed to spreading the gospel, equipping local leaders, and serving communities across Zambia and beyond. Their mission is rooted in a deep love for Christ and a desire to bring hope and healing to those who need it most. Whether it’s through children’s ministry, street evangelism, or empowering local churches, AFM works tirelessly to be the hands and feet of Jesus in some of the most underserved areas of the world. What sets AFM apart is their dependence on the Holy Spirit and their focus on serving out of an overflow of God’s love, fostering authentic community and sustainable growth.
When I first partnered with AFM, I had no idea how deeply it would impact me. I joined a small team to serve in Zambia, traveling to rural villages and urban compounds to share the love of Christ. The work wasn’t glamorous—it was gritty, raw, and real. From sitting in the dust with children at the orphanage to walking house to house sharing the gospel, every moment felt purposeful.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
This experience pushed my faith deeply. While I had known the gospel intellectually, sitting face-to-face with someone and being asked to explain it made it come alive. I realized that nothing I say can heal or change lives, but somehow, the Holy Spirit speaks through us. Watching the impact of the gospel on someone’s face and demeanor is something I’ll never forget.
AFM became the bridge between knowing about missions and stepping fully into it. They provided the training, support, and vision I needed to step out of my comfort zone and trust God with the unknown. I learned to rely on Him in ways I never had before. Whether it was through street evangelism, prayer ministry, or children’s outreach, I experienced the beauty of being part of something so much bigger than myself.
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us” (Ephesians 3:20).
But the impact wasn’t one-sided. While we were there to serve, God used the people of Zambia to teach me more about His heart. Their faith, resilience, and joy in the face of hardship left me humbled and inspired. I’ll never forget worshipping under the stars in a remote village, hearing voices lifted in praise, and feeling the presence of God so tangibly it brought me to tears. These are the moments that changed me, refining my faith and giving me a deeper understanding of what it means to truly rely on the Lord. We had no set plans or preconceived notions about how the days would go, but in complete surrender, God moved mightily.
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9).
AFM’s work is ongoing, and the need is great. From building relationships with local churches to reaching street children in urban areas, their ministry touches countless lives. It’s a reminder of Jesus’ words: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38). Organizations like AFM depend on prayer, support, and people willing to say “yes” to the call of missions.
Africa Freedom Mission didn’t just give me an opportunity to serve; they ignited a passion for missions that continues to burn in my heart. They showed me that missions isn’t about having it all figured out; it’s about showing up, trusting God, and being willing to say, “Here I am. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8). As I continue my journey, I’ll always carry the lessons and experiences from AFM with me. Their example of obedience and love has set a foundation for how I want to live out the gospel every day.
If you’ve ever felt even the smallest nudge toward missions, I encourage you to learn more about organizations like AFM. You never know—it might just change your life, too.
