We often assume that ministry must be big to make an impact. Yet some of the most significant changes in a person’s life begin with something small—an honest conversation, a shared meal, or a faithful relationship that grows deep over time.

I saw and heard many examples of this during my recent visit with our SEPAL team in Colombia. Over three days with our leaders, Harley and Felipe, I listened as they shared story after story of pastors, ministry leaders, fellow missionaries, young people, students, and families they are mentoring and discipling. Their team may be small, but their investment in people runs deep.

One of those people is a young man being discipled by Harley. He comes from a difficult background and has been studying the Bible with Harley, beginning in Genesis and tracing its message chronologically. It is a long process, but together they are going deep into God’s Word and allowing it to speak into their lives, families, and culture. When I met him, he could hardly wait to tell me how studying the Bible with Harley has changed his life.

At the same Bible study, I met a young missionary family from a neighboring country. Their ministry in another region had placed their lives at risk, forcing them to relocate for their safety. After connecting with Harley and Julianna, they moved to a secure area where they have been able to reengage in ministry, support their family, and find local fellowship. Felipe also told me about several pastors in whom he is investing through weekly Bible study and mentoring. These efforts may seem small, but they are helping people grow strong, put down deep roots, and continue serving others. That is ministry impact: faithful relationships through which God changes lives, families, and communities over time.