September 02, 2015

When Dreams Come True


Amy Christensen, Medical/Dental Volunteer 

Four years ago on a missions trip, I had a knowing in my heart that one day I would be baptized in Africa. 

I was thrilled at the thought and eager to see how God would make that dream happen. As the years stretched on, I tried at times to force the issue…but God always closed the door. Ultimately, I learned to trust Him for perfect timing. 

This year, I decided to join the Hand of Hope medical/dental team headed to rural areas of Zambia. It was my ninth trip as a volunteer with the ministry. On the second day of clinics, I felt the Lord’s leading that this was the trip to rededicate my life and be baptized. 

After getting the details worked out, a boat took us to a nearby clear-water tributary that connected to the Zambezi River. Dr. Raj Patel, one of the volunteer dentists, led the group in prayer, reaffirmed my faith and then baptized me. 

As the water rushed over me, I felt the cleansing and healing power of God flood my soul. I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing me to serve on these trips and for enabling me to have the most awesome baptism experience. 

After all, it was being a part of the Hand of Hope medical/dental missions team that inspired me to get my license as a dental assistant. I saw the great need people had for medical and dental care, and I wanted to be more effective while on the mission field. 

It’s so rewarding to be able to use that training to help relieve people’s pain. During those five days of clinics in Zambia, our team saw 1,744 patients…and at least 1,500 of them found new life in Christ through the outreach. I couldn’t imagine life any other way! 

If you’re a medical/dental professional, we’d love for you to join with us on an upcoming trip



Hand of Hope is the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Our goal is simply to help as many hurting people as we possibly can, to alleviate human suffering and to help Christians grow in their faith.

Follow Hand of Hope on Facebook | Twitter