Episode 32 - Serving in Africa - David Woods - Why he loves Africa, learning local languages, and miracle stories

Our country director for North America and Zambia makes his second appearance on the show, this time with our group of hosts in the new format. He shares stories from his time in Africa that he never told in Episode 1, explaining why he loves the continent so much, and some of the differences in people groups and languages between some of the countries there. The panel talks about what it means to be a missionary, whether you’re serving abroad or at home. David recounts camping in the African bush, explains how he learned local languages, reflects on how he’s handled periods when the work was hard, and talks about tough decisions to stop drilling for water at certain well-drilling sites. In our rapid fire question round, hear David’s favorite and least favorite African food dish, favorite African safari park, the African animal he’s most scared of, which African animal he thinks he can take down, and his favorite “Inside Missions” host to travel with. He also shares why Maranatha’s work in North America has such an impact on the places we serve, and the volunteers who assist.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe, leave a review, and share the show.Visit maranatha.org for more info on the work of Maranatha Volunteers International.Text us! Let us know what you thought of this episode and the show in general!On September 19, 2026, join us in Sacramento, California, for our annual convention, Mission: Maranatha. You’ll be inspired by volunteer testimonies, stories from the mission field, and updates from Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders around the globe. Plus, be blessed by Oakwood University's award-winning choir, The Aeolians.Learn more at https://maranatha.org/media-events/maranatha-convention/