This summer our family is moving to Thailand to complete a
12-month fellowship with International Justice Mission. When we tell people
this, one of the first questions we’re asked is: Why IJM?
If you’re not familiar with International Justice Mission,
they are a Christian organization focused on defending the most vulnerable by
providing justice to the world’s poor. Throughout their seventeen global
offices, IJM focuses on rescuing victims of human trafficking, assisting local
law enforcement in bringing criminals to justice, supporting survivors, and
preventing violence by strengthening local justice systems.
Several years ago we were introduced to IJM while at a Sara
Groves concert. Her stories and description of the organization led me to read
Gary Haugen’s book Terrify No More. The book opened our eyes to the
injustice being done around the world, specifically to young girls who were
victims of trafficking. In recent years, we have done more reading and research
about the injustices done to millions globally, and have become aware of the
real need that these victims have to be rescued and restored.
Scott and I have felt called to spend time overseas for many
years, but were not sure where or how that calling would be fulfilled.
Recently, we felt drawn to the cause of fighting human trafficking and slavery.
International Justice Mission’s work and heart for those who are victims of
violence seems like a natural fit to that calling. If you’d like to find out
more about IJM’s work, I encourage you to visit their website: www.ijm.org or listen to Gary Haugen’s TED Talk here: https://www.ijm.org/TED
We’ll be posting more updates about our preparations for
Thailand, raising finances, and adventures we encounter throughout the year.
Stay tuned!
