When Paul wrote to the church in Philippi, he said, “I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” His words reveal something more than appreciation for financial support. They express deep affection for a church that had joined him in heart and mission–a true partnership in the gospel.

I was born into a Muslim family, and as a teenager, I was required to follow all the rules of Islam. At first, I wanted to obey those rules because I wanted to be like my parents. But after years of trying to do everything that was expected of me, I realized I had no real relationship with God.

In the heart of Tabora, Tanzania, the sound of the gospel drifts softly through open windows every Sunday morning. From Radio Uhai, voices rise in worship, Scripture is read aloud, and the message of Jesus Christ is spoken with clarity and love. For many, this broadcast is more than just a radio program—it’s a lifeline. Among those forever changed by it is a man named Soki.

My story begins in one of the hardest seasons of my life. I was battling stage 4 breast cancer, and I was full of anger and bitterness. My life had been hard, and now this diagnosis felt like the final blow. I blamed God for everything–my pain, my struggles, and my cancer.

Last month, the jungles of Petén, Guatemala–once home to longtime BMA missionary Marvin Loyd–were alive again with the sound of laughter, joy, and gospel hope. Through Everlasting Smiles Shoeboxes, the ministry that began years ago in this region continues to bear fruit for the glory of God.

My name is Manar. I’m a pastry chef, a mother of three–ages 10, 11, and 12–and a widow for eight years. When my youngest was still a toddler, my husband became a believer in Christ. I, however, wanted nothing to do with it. In fact, the more he talked about his faith, the more resistant I became. I dug in my heels and eventually declared myself an atheist.