Google and prayer. It sounds like an odd pairing, but for Encompass’s own Betsy Becker, it has become a surprisingly powerful way God opens doors. 

Betsy spent 18 years in Central Asia as an Encompass field worker—nearly two decades of pouring herself into the people, language, culture, and the work of making Jesus known. But when the Lord recently brought that season to a close, her heart still burned for the next generation of missionaries. That’s why she joined Encompass’s Mobilization team and began pouring her experience into the students of Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana—speaking, teaching, discipling, and helping young believers imagine a life that looks outward. 

Wanting her students to experience something deeper than a classroom lecture, she asked for the Lord’s guidance and Googled “International Ministries near me.” One of the search results was International House, a Christian organization based in Ft. Wayne, which has become a welcome city for international refugees. Moved by their heart and effort to love their neighbors, she quickly connected with them to see how her group could get involved. 

Fast forward to today, and Betsy and her group of students are helping this organization with an English class every week. The room is filled with faces from Burma, Afghanistan, Palestine, Haiti, and beyond. What began as a simple vocabulary lesson quickly led to moments of connection, shared laughter, and gentle openings for the gospel. After just one month, these students have gotten to pray with refugees, lead a Bible study with them, and see God soften hearts. 

Even with all her years of missionary experience, Betsy is humbled and amazed by how clearly God is moving. “Don’t underestimate Google and prayer!” she laughs. Betsy clearly has a strong conviction that there’s a mission field right here in the States. “Start Googling international restaurants in your area, international stores, and Islamic centers,” she says. “Know who’s in your town and ask the Holy Spirit for opportunities. Go to these places with time to spare, say hello, learn someone’s name, and welcome them.”  

So, what about you? What organizations, resources, or communities in your town could become a bridge for you to love the nations God has brought to your own backyard? If you need ideas, never underestimate what God can do with a willing heart and a simple Google search.