Raising Up Christian Leaders in South Asia: A Glimpse Into God's Work
- Ashland Watson
- Apr 4
- 3 min read
There’s something incredibly humbling about walking into a church you’ve prayed for, half a world away, and seeing it not only standing but thriving. On our recent missions trip to South Asia, our team was reminded again and again that when we partner with God’s people and follow His call, He does more than we can ask or imagine.
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us." - Ephesians 3:20
What began as a five-year commitment to help plant and support a local church has become a testimony of faithfulness, courage, and the rise of the next generation of Christian leaders.
This trip wasn’t about building something new, it was about witnessing the growth of what’s already been planted. And let me tell you, the seeds are sprouting.
Faith That Inspires Boldness
One of the most powerful parts of the trip was spending time with young adults in the region, bright, passionate, deeply faithful men and women who are hungry to lead. Many of them are first-generation Christians. Some come from families who do not understand or support their faith, and yet, their courage to follow Jesus is unwavering.
We spent our days investing in them, not just spiritually, but practically. Our team taught sessions on fire safety, computer basics, storytelling and photography, first aid, and preaching. These weren’t just lessons, they were launching pads. And watching these young leaders soak it all in was a reminder that discipleship isn’t only about theology. It’s about equipping God’s people with the tools to serve their communities well.
Paul’s words to Timothy kept echoing:
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers…” -1 Timothy 4:12
These young men and women are already doing just that.
A Model of Partnership
This trip also deepened our partnership with our local Leader and his Wife, two faithful, servant-hearted leaders who have dedicated their lives to the Gospel in South Asia. They are not just ministry contacts. They are family.
At Mosaic, we don’t believe in parachuting in and out of places with one-off efforts. We believe in coming alongside incredible local leaders, people who know the culture, the language, and the spiritual landscape, and saying, “We believe in you. We’re with you.” Our time with him and his wife only confirmed that this model sustains kingdom work for the long haul.
They reminded us that the church isn’t a building, it’s people. And in South Asia, the church is alive, hungry, and growing.
More Than a Trip
From a mission standpoint, this trip checked a lot of boxes. We trained, taught, encouraged, listened, and served. But more than anything, we received. We were inspired by their faith, moved by their stories, and reminded that God is at work in ways we can’t always see.
There’s a temptation in short-term missions to think we’re the ones bringing the light. But so often, it’s the local believers who teach us what bold, Spirit-led, sacrificial faith really looks like. That’s exactly what happened here.
Isaiah 52:7 says, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news…” These Christian leaders—young and old, seasoned and emerging—are doing just that, often at great cost, and with even greater love.
What's Next
So what’s the takeaway? We’re more committed than ever to raising up Christian leaders, not just in South Asia, but everywhere Mosaic goes. We believe leadership is nurtured, not stumbled into. It’s the fruit of intentional discipleship, authentic partnership, and faithful presence.
Whether it’s through practical training, pastoral care, financial support, or simply showing up, our role is to empower and equip local believers to lead in their own communities.
We left South Asia with full hearts and renewed vision. The Spirit of God is moving. The church is growing. And the next generation of leaders is rising with fire in their bones and the name of Jesus on their lips.
Your Support Matters
If you’ve ever wondered whether your support of missions really matters, let this be your confirmation: it does. Lives are being transformed, churches are being planted, and Christian leaders are being raised up to carry the Gospel into unreached places.
And we’re just getting started.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” -Matthew 28:19, not as individuals working alone, but as the body of Christ, unified and empowered for the glory of God.
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