What God Can Do in the Middle of a Cornfield

I had the distinct, long-awaited privilege of visiting a MIRACLE PLACE in Mapleton, IA, called Mission Central on Saturday. Rather than try to explain what it is, I'll let you read the story for yourself and stick to telling you about my day. The dynamo behind the place is "Old Missionary Gary" (although he'll tell you he doesn't do anything; it's all his Boss), aided by the Rev. Dr. Brent Smith. They are both NOT NORMAL, and neither are any of their visitors or the missionaries they support. They like to remind you of that frequently 😉

After exiting I-29 and driving 20 miles, this is what you see:

The first order of business was to take a picture of me with the Boss. Gary & I then recorded a 6 min. interview-style video that can be used in any number of congregational settings. Let me know if you/your church would like a copy. 

My visit coincided with one of Mission Central's larger events, drawing 200+ visitors from 4 states. We began in the Fellowship Hall with a welcome from Gary. The group was then split down the middle; half went to The Lord's Creation Theater (see below), while half stayed behind to hear presentations from me and the other missionary who was there, Josh Lange, on furlough from Shanghai. After switching, we were treated to lunch, a perfect example of how Mission Central has zero overhead since everything is donated and done by volunteers. They even cleaned up after us!

After lunch, we transitioned to the Miracle Barn for an interactive program led by Gary. He told us how he hauled 20+ loads of manure out from right where we were sitting and regaled us with tales of how God provided elements such as the stained glass window, altar, and projector. 

Every conceivable surface in the barn is covered with artifacts - garments, weapons, musical instruments, flags, etc. - acquired by Gary in his travels to 75 countries or donated by current & former missionaries. He went region by region highlighting some of the standouts from each. South America is pictured below. 

The program concluded with a commissioning for me, Josh, and Rev. John Fale, Executive Director of the Office of International Mission. Gary invited all the pastors present to lay their hands on and pray for us. 

Once all of the visitors had departed, Josh & I got to experience The Lord's Creation Theater, since we had missed out on it while giving our presentations twice. We sat on the risers pictured, facing a curtain with a screen in front of it. I can't tell you what's behind the curtain...you have to go!

Finally, we made our way to a tiny roadside chapel, where Gary sent us on our way with a prayer. The chapel is open to all who pass by. Josh & I were featured as the "Missionaries of the Week" on a bulletin board just inside the door, and there were pens and Bibles (donated, of course) free for the taking. 

I'll stop there, although this post doesn't begin to convey the magnitude of what God does through Gary, Brent, an army of volunteers, and thousands of people who make their way to the middle of a cornfield on an annual basis. Their deep conviction that the Church needs to be sending missionaries into all the world is mind boggling and results in millions raised for missionary support. I'm deeply grateful that I was able to visit so early on in this season of network building and will not soon forget my time there. 

Until next time, blessings!