Ships :: Jake (South Korea) reflects on his journey with OM's Ship Ministry from learning English in the U.S.A. to leading worship across Latin America and Asia.
From South Korea to the decks of Logos Hope, Jake’s journey is a story of God’s leading, provision and transformation as he learned to trust God in new ways.
Growing up, Jake was surrounded by stories of OM. His father had served on an OM ship in the late 1980s, and when Doulos visited South Korea in 2001 and 2007, Jake felt something stir in his heart. “I was able to see and taste the beauty of the community of Jesus followers,” he recalls. “All the tribes and nations talking about the same God, with one purpose, to share God’s love.”
Serving in an international context
In 2018, Jake took his first step of faith by joining OM’s Short-Term Exposure Programme (STEP) in Florence, South Carolina, USA. Jake shares, “I was exposed to American culture, learning English, and most of all, going deeper with God. God was refining me.” Jake reflects on his time in Florence as setting up a foundation for a life spent serving in an international context. “I was able to improve in the areas of language, friendship, cultural exposure, and expanding my worldview through diverse opportunities.”
After STEP Florence, Jake continued his language learning training in Mexico before finally joining Logos Hope in Guatemala. His time on board deepened his faith and dependence on God.
Music creating connection
Music became a powerful tool for connecting with others. “I was really passionate about singing worship songs in Spanish. I’d grab my guitar, go to the deck and just worship. Even with different languages, we all felt the same Spirit.” One of his most defining moments was leading worship in front of the ship’s community. “It was so obvious that God is the God of all nations. We may be different, but we feel the same purpose, to know God more and to love Him more.”
How is God leading you?
To anyone considering joining OM's Ship Ministry, Jake offers this encouragement: “Just give it a shot. It will be a life-changing experience, not just for you, but for those you meet. Even in uncertainty, your faith will grow.”
Jake’s journey is a reminder that when we step out in faith, God moves in ways that go far beyond our imagination.
“It’s not about how much you do. God invites us to be part of His journey. This is the opportunity to see that God is good, all the time.”
Are you ready to be part of this journey?
“I recommend those who want to join cross-cultural work to step up your journey through STEP,” says Jake. “It's an amazing opportunity for you to expand a bigger worldview and perspective to see the world.”
Are you like Jake considering joining one of the STEP opportunities in Florence or on board OM’s ships? Find out more here.