We are going to form an exploratory team to pray about the possibility of launching a location in Berlin, Germany. Honestly, we have no time line and no agenda. We’re just seeking the Lord on this. Our next step is a reconnaissance trip to Germany this summer.

Why Berlin? Honestly, it came out of nowhere. We were approached by a missions organization that was familiar with Ebenezers. And they felt like that model of marketplace ministry might work there. We had an initial meeting here in DC. And I can’t get one comment out of my mind: “Berlin is closer to DC than Wichita, Kansas.” Yes, there is a language barrier. But it’s a capital city like DC with a developing city center. And Germans love coffee as much as Americans. The idea was just crazy enough for us to consider it.

This year, as part of our A18 Initiative, we’re taking ten missions trips to ten countries. Our goal is to expose people to needs and opportunities around the world. Honestly, I think one mission trip has greater spiritual value than fifty-two sermons. So I had a thought today. Most of us are willing to give God one week. But what about one year?

Given our demographic, 67% single twenty-somethings, I wonder how many NCCers would be willing to relocate? How many would be willing to give God one year? If we get a green light from God we’ll find out.