Back in 2015, I wrote about a Christian fair-trade store I stumbled across called The Marketplace. You can read more about that introduction here: https://michaelmyrick.org/the-marketplace/
In the 5 years since, I have been involved with this amazing ministry, sometimes daily. Beginning around March 2016, I started volunteering for them on various projects. My work with them is one of the more fulfilling things I do because of the worldwide reach they have. The thought of being involved in a small way with 90 ministries in 30 countries is truly impactful! I wrote in the quick blog post linked above that I felt, “a definite pull to get involved with The Marketplace in some way, and I will pray as to how to do that”. Little did I know back then how involved I would be! Having just left a job at the time of that post, I felt maybe The Marketplace was my next step. Initially, I felt I was in a position to work for them, take over the business, or even start my own version of it. It didn’t take long to realize that was not the case. You can’t just do what they do. It isn’t at all as easy as they make it look. In fact, there are times when I’m not sure how they do it at all. The long hours and intense spiritual nature of The Marketplace make it something not easily replicated. In many cases they are breaking major bonds of physical and spiritual captivity. To see the guidance they provide to their ministry groups, artisans, and others is truly inspiring. All in the name of Jesus Christ!
So what do I do? I provide social media and business advice, as well as basic graphic design and content creation when needed, and I pray. A lot. Because of what they do, and how it directly confronts the devil’s plan for humanity, they are under constant spiritual attack. In February, I was added to their Board, and I have enjoyed that expanded role. It felt like a natural extension of what I was already doing with them, so when I was offered the opportunity, I prayed on it and eventually accepted the position. My regular communication with Marisa and Lou Sellman, the couple who literally do it all at TMP is great, and I enjoy when I can contribute. In short, I’m very happy I came across them 5 years ago, and I look forward to being involved in this ministry in any way they’ll have me, for quite some time.
