ARTICLE WRITTEN BY: Channing Cole
What began as a modest family project and a childhood jungle gym, blossomed into a living organism that is growing before our very eyes. Scalpel transcends purely human construction; instead, it reflects God’s divine presence that works through a collective to showcase His boundless love.
Here are a few insights I’ve gleaned about Scalpel over its 20 years of existence. Scalpel embodies love through actions, not merely words. It strives to care for others holistically, not one dimensionally. SATC generates collaboration, with the intention to invest. This foundation underscores the importance of the church body, not solely the individual. Finally, Scalpel is dedicated to nurturing a sustainable model that empowers a community to live as God intends us to for eternity.
The goal has never been to make Scalpel as big as possible. However, when a foundation operates with integrity, its mission naturally flourishes. This concept was beautifully showcased on January 26th at the Miami Gala Fundraiser, in a city that has played an instrumental role in cultivating Scalpel. Representing the largest SATC event to date, the evening showcased 8 months of diligent effort led by a Gala committee, building upon our Miami network as it progresses into the mission’s stateside future.
I witnessed the team’s creativity in action as it crafted overarching strategies to enhance donor impact by leveraging personal networks, collaborating with ministry partners, and engaging with the UMiami health system, among other approaches.
Some of the Gala highlights featured vibrant Peruvian cuisine and beverages, colorful displays, cultural markets, and captivating dance performances. Gathering from all over the world, in the same room were dedicated missionaries, influential business leaders, renowned medical icons, and motivated students, all joined together for a common purpose: serving Pucallpa! Among the audience were both longtime close friends and supporters of Scalpel, as well as newcomers encountering the foundation for the first time.
The program included a multitude of SATC representatives speaking about the miracle that has unfolded over the past two decades. However, not only did it look back to reflect on what’s been done, but the show also strived to soak in the present moment, while painting a picture for what the future holds with a united effort. The night instilled hope as we think about the next generation of Scalpel.
Both my own story and those of numerous others who engage with the mission echo a similar sentiment. Serving Scalpel in any capacity begins with a desire to help people in a practical way, but as we continue to support, there’s a quick realization that we’ve been more impacted than anything we’ve ever done ourselves. Personally, I find that to be a magnificent testament to the greatness of our God.
So here is my call, whether with your time, network, or money, be generous with the blessings you’ve been given, and discover just how much more you’ll receive in the process. This January offered a remarkable glimpse into the astounding work underway, yet I firmly believe that God is only just beginning, and I am thrilled to be along for the ride!