Hidden Heroes: Serving Behind the Scenes

Whether we’re responding in Myanmar, Cambodia, or our own backyard, the unsung heroes of Samaritan’s Purse are key to allowing us to serve in Jesus’ Name wherever we go.

Kristy Graham sits down with Heather Armstrong, Eric Kohout, and Dave Bucklin who serve in three different capacities, which rarely see the spotlight, but are all crucial to the ministry.

As a deputy director in our International Projects Department, Heather’s role allows her to see both sides of our ministry, front-facing and unseen. And she gives perspective on the value of having a highly skilled team operating behind the scenes.

“We have so many different types of support roles here at Samaritan’s Purse where we're allowed, or we have the opportunity, to use the strengths that God has given us in a way that really supports His Gospel moving forward to the ends of the earth.” – Heather Armstrong

As talented and skilled as our team members are, time and again they watch God step in and do the impossible. Even during the most meticulous planning, leaving room for God to work is a crucial part of faith. Dave, Eric, and Heather recall times when getting supplies to an isolated island seemed impossible, visas for doctors and nurses to serve in Myanmar looked unlikely, and rewiring an entire intensive care and surgical unit in the Democratic Republic of Congo was unimaginable.

Eric Kohout on the logistics team compares each response to solving a puzzle, with its own unique needs and unpredictable schedule, saying flexibility is key.

“I've gotten to the point where I know that whatever we're called to do, God will provide a way for us to get it done.” – Eric Kohout

These teams work tirelessly on the less glamorous side of the operation to make it possible for our teams to serve on the ground in other parts of the world.

Eric shared that he finds encouragement in Colossians 3:23 (NIV) which says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

Heather shares a story from the field in Cambodia where a leader within Samaritan’s Purse did not think himself above picking up trash. It so impressed a family, that this man would humble himself and serve their community in such a lowly manner, that they gave their lives to Christ.

Just like the body of Christ depicted in 1 Corinthians 12, every role is important and vital to the greater whole. We could not do the life-saving work of Jesus Christ without the faithfulness of those handling the details, logistics, and inner-workings of each department.

It’s fascinating to hear how these individuals use their unique gifts and hear from God in their roles. This episode is designed to encourage you that no matter your skillset, God can use you for His glory.

“I think that what's important is that no matter what our role is, whether it's here at Samaritan’s Purse or in our church, in our families, it's important that we shine the spotlight on the One who has called us to serve.” – Heather Armstrong

Please pray for our organization and our teams who prepare so much in advance, allowing us to be flexible, pivot, and quickly respond when disaster strikes. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org.