“I know that part of me would shrivel and die if I didn’t venture out and experience all that God has for me.” OMF Creatives team member Lorenzo Ortega shares his journey in mission—so far.

I first learned about Mission when I was six, after hearing the story of Eric Liddell, the Olympic gold medalist who became a missionary in China. His famous quote, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast! And when I run, I feel His pleasure,” inspired me to realize that God has uniquely gifted each of us.

While committing fully to Mission is a noble calling, I’ve come to understand that we can serve God through the gifts He’s given us, right where we are—not just by going to the mission field. This lesson has shaped my journey and my heart for serving others.

The faith of a godly mother

Growing up, I first came to know Christ through my mom, who lovingly and faithfully taught us about His ways from a very young age.

As a single mother, she faced the daunting challenge of raising us on her own after separating from my dad when I was just three months old. Yet, by God’s incredible grace, she found Christ during that difficult season and surrendered her life to Him.

Through her unwavering example, and later through the example of my grandparents who also came to know Christ, I have seen firsthand how a life fully surrendered to God transforms us—changing our hearts, purifying our minds, and shaping our perspectives.

Deepening curiosity and love

From a young age, I’ve had a deep love for travel and a curiosity to learn about different cultures. Whenever I meet someone from another part of the world, I get lost in their stories and often wonder when it will be my turn to live in a foreign place.

In high school, I attended Faith Academy in Manila, a school for missionary kids. There, I was surrounded by friends who joyfully served alongside their parents in the Philippines. Their love for the people they served left a lasting impression on me, and it was through their example that my own heart for missions began to grow.

Christian community at university

By God’s grace, I was given the incredible opportunity to study university in Sydney—something I had never imagined possible. It has been a true blessing to be part of a campus with a strong Christian community and a ministry that supports international students like myself.

This experience has deepened my heart for missions, particularly for the diaspora community in Sydney. Many are here temporarily for their studies, while others are considering staying long-term.

It has been encouraging to witness how God unites people from all over the world through His Word, creating a global family of Christians.

Discovering and sharing missionary stories

I feel truly blessed to be part of OMF’s Creatives Team. We share inspiring missionary stories  which impact our readers and viewers, stirring a desire to explore their own calling—whether that’s becoming a missionary or finding other ways to serve.

I dream of one day having the opportunity to go to the nations to work and share the gospel, inspired both by the missionaries who have gone before me and by my teachers at Faith Academy who ignited my love for learning and growing in Christ.

Sydney and Australia have been such a gift, offering me countless opportunities and friendships that have helped strengthen my relationship with Christ. I am deeply grateful for all the ways God has worked in my life here.

The beautiful story God writes

Exploring the world is still a passion of mine, and I know that part of me would shrivel and die if I didn’t venture out and experience all that God has for me. There are so many people to connect with, and my heart is eager to do that.

For now, Australia is the place God has called me, but I know His plans for me could take me anywhere. I look forward to seeing the beautiful story He will continue to write, as He uses us—His people—through the OMF Creatives team to share His love and truth with the world.

Thoughts on intergenerational community

I’m a big believer in the power of storytelling, and I think one of the most powerful ways to witness the gospel in action is through sharing personal testimonies and lived experiences. It would be great if churches could create more opportunities for conversations between different generations. As someone who has attended a church with mostly students, I’ve found it refreshing to hear wisdom from those who are further along in their walk with God—not just in terms of age, but in life experience. At the same time, I’ve appreciated that they also listen to me and value my perspective. These kinds of exchanges really enrich both friendships and discipleship, helping bridge the generational gap in a meaningful way!