A Legacy of Faith: My Journey as a Baptist Missionary in Mexico

Introduction: A Legacy of Missions

My name is Jonathan Ashcraft, and I have the incredible privilege of serving as a Baptist missionary in Mexico alongside my wonderful wife, Jenny, and our four children: Jonathan Jr., Tommy, Lucas, and Megan. For me, missions is more than just a calling—it’s a legacy. As a third-generation missionary, I’ve been blessed to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, L.H. Ashcraft, and my father, Tommy Ashcraft, who both dedicated their lives to serving God and spreading His Word in Mexico. Their passion for ministry inspired me from a young age, and I knew even as a child that God was calling me to this work.

Our journey in Mexico officially began in October 2007, but in many ways, it started much earlier. Growing up in the mission field, I had a firsthand view of the joys and challenges of this life. It’s where my love for the people of Mexico and my desire to serve God took root. Now, decades later, I have the honor of not only continuing this legacy but also passing it on to my children, who cheer with excitement every time we cross the border into Mexico after a trip to the United States.

This blog is my story—not just of my personal journey, but of the faith, struggles, and triumphs that come with being a missionary. It’s a story of God’s faithfulness and a testament to what He can do when we answer His call. Whether you’re considering missionary work, looking for encouragement in your own faith, or simply curious about life in the mission field, I hope my story will inspire you to trust God’s plan for your life.

Answering the Call

Becoming a missionary wasn’t just a decision for me—it was a calling I embraced with excitement and purpose. As a child growing up in a missionary family, I saw the transformative power of ministry and knew that God had placed a desire in my heart to follow the same path. Watching my grandfather, L.H. Ashcraft, and my father, Tommy Ashcraft, serve faithfully in Mexico gave me a clear picture of what a life dedicated to God could look like. Their example fueled my eagerness to step into ministry and inspired me to carry on the legacy they had begun.

When the time came to prepare for this calling, I was ready. I enrolled at Hyles-Anderson College, where I deepened my understanding of God’s Word and ministry. It was there that I met Jenny, the woman who would become my partner in life and in missions. Together, we prayed and planned for the journey God had laid before us. After graduation, we began deputation, traveling to churches to raise the financial support we would need to serve in Mexico.

Those two years of deputation were a time of growth and learning. We weren’t fully funded when we moved to Mexico—and, truthfully, we still aren’t—but God has been faithful every step of the way. There were moments of doubt, especially when we wondered if we could make it financially, but God provided through the generosity of others. Our sending church, Lewis Avenue Baptist Church, was instrumental during this time, covering many of our expenses and encouraging us as we got started. Other churches and individuals also played a vital role, reminding us that God’s provision often comes through His people.

Looking back, I’m thankful for those early days of preparation and the lessons they taught us about trust and perseverance. They set the stage for the incredible work God would do in and through us in Mexico.

Life and Ministry in Mexico

For me, stepping into life as a missionary in Mexico didn’t feel like a significant adjustment—it felt like coming home. I grew up here, immersed in the culture and language, watching my parents and grandparents pour their lives into the ministry. When Jenny and I moved here in 2007, I was thrilled to return to the place I loved and knew so well. Jenny, despite being new to life in Mexico, embraced it wholeheartedly from the beginning. Now, our children share that same love for this country. Every time we return from a trip to the United States, their cheers as we cross the border are a joyful reminder of how deeply connected we are to this place.

One of the greatest blessings of this journey has been the opportunity to work in the church where I grew up. After my father stepped down as pastor, the church voted to call me to lead as his successor—a responsibility I consider both a privilege and a profound trust. Beyond pastoring, I also have the honor of running the Bible Institute, where we train national believers to become church planters and leaders, equipping them to carry the gospel to communities across Mexico and other Latin American countries. Additionally, I oversee a Christian school, providing a Christ-centered education for the next generation.

Our days are filled with ministry, family, and service to the people of Mexico. Jenny and I often reflect on how God has woven every part of our lives into His plan. The familiarity of the culture, the love of the people, and the mission to build His kingdom make every day meaningful. It’s more than work—it’s a calling we live out with gratitude and purpose.

A Day in the Life of a Missionary

Life as a missionary in Mexico is vibrant, busy, and full of purpose. As a husband, father of four, pastor, and ministry leader, my days are packed, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every moment feels like an opportunity to serve God and the people He’s called us to reach.

A typical day might start early with time spent in prayer and studying God’s Word. From there, the schedule can vary widely. As the pastor of our church, much of my time is dedicated to preaching, preparing sermons, and visiting with church members to provide encouragement or support. Some days are spent knocking on doors, sharing the gospel, and connecting with people in our community. Soul-winning is a cornerstone of our ministry, and it’s a joy to see lives changed as people come to know Christ.

Beyond the church, I also oversee the Bible Institute, where we train national believers to plant churches throughout Mexico and other Latin American countries. Teaching and mentoring these students is one of the most rewarding aspects of my ministry. It’s a privilege to see their passion for the gospel and know they’ll carry the message to places I may never go. Additionally, I run a Christian school, ensuring the next generation has access to a Christ-centered education.

Ministry doesn’t stop at the church doors—it extends into every area of our lives. Whether I’m traveling to preach at other churches and conferences, visiting members of the congregation, or spending time with Jenny and the kids, each day is an opportunity to live out our calling. Balancing the demands of ministry and family life can be challenging, but we make it a priority to support one another and find joy in the work we do together.

Through the busyness, one thing remains constant: the privilege of serving God. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Each day reminds me that God has blessed us with a life full of meaning, growth, and opportunities to make an eternal impact.

Growth and Challenges

Looking back on my journey as a missionary, I see a life filled with blessings, growth, and challenges that have shaped me into who I am today. At 42 years old, I feel immense gratitude for the privilege of serving God, and I look forward to continuing in His work for the rest of my life. But the road hasn’t always been easy.

Over the years, we’ve faced losses and attacks that tested our faith and resolve. Some of these challenges have been spiritual, with moments of discouragement and spiritual warfare reminding us of the real battle we’re fighting. Others have been more tangible, like legal obstacles and logistical hurdles that made ministry difficult at times. Through it all, we’ve seen God’s faithfulness in ways that have deepened our trust in Him.

One of the greatest joys has been watching our church grow—not just in numbers but in spiritual maturity and unity. The members have taken ownership of the ministry, stepping up to serve and give sacrificially. The church is no longer dependent on us as American missionaries to cover its financial needs. It is self-supporting, which is a significant milestone and a testament to the spiritual growth and dedication of the congregation.

These moments of growth, both for the church and for me personally, have come through God’s grace and the lessons He’s taught us along the way. I’ve learned that the challenges we face are often opportunities for growth—both in faith and in leadership. Each trial has reminded me that God is in control and that His plans are far greater than anything we could imagine.

Through every difficulty, we’ve seen God use our ministry to change lives, and that makes it all worth it. Whether it’s witnessing someone come to Christ for the first time, seeing a national pastor take their first steps in leading a church, or watching our own children grow in their faith, I’m constantly reminded that this work is not in vain. God is faithful, and His blessings far outweigh the challenges.

The Impact of Missionary Work

The impact of our ministry in Mexico is something I can only attribute to God’s hand at work. Over the years, we’ve seen our church grow in ways that I couldn’t have anticipated. This growth isn’t just about attendance—it’s about spiritual depth, unity, and a shared vision for serving God together. Our church has become a strong, self-supporting congregation, with members who give generously, serve faithfully, and work together to advance the gospel.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our ministry is training national believers to become church planters and leaders. Through the Bible Institute, we’ve equipped men and women to plant churches across Mexico and even in other Latin American countries. It’s incredible to see their passion for the gospel and their dedication to spreading the Good News to communities that desperately need it. Knowing that these leaders will continue the work long after I’m gone gives me immense hope and confidence in God’s plan.

The Christian school we run has also been a powerful tool for ministry. By providing a Christ-centered education, we’re not only preparing students for academic success but also instilling in them a foundation of faith that will guide them throughout their lives. These young people represent the next generation of believers who will carry the torch of faith in Mexico and beyond.

As I reflect on the impact of this work, I’m reminded that none of it is because of me. It’s all God. I’m just a vessel, doing my best to be faithful to His calling. The transformation we’ve seen in individuals and communities is a testament to His power. From lives changed by the gospel to new churches being planted, every victory belongs to Him.

This ministry isn’t just about what’s happening now; it’s about building something that will last. I want to leave a legacy that continues to bear fruit for God’s kingdom long after I’m gone. That means not only reaching people today but also equipping leaders for tomorrow. Seeing our church and ministry thrive without being dependent on us as missionaries is one of the greatest accomplishments I could hope for.

Advice for Aspiring Missionaries

If you’re considering missionary work, let me share some advice from my own journey. First and foremost, go somewhere and stay there. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that long-term commitment to a single community is where the deepest impact is made. It’s tempting to think that moving from place to place will create a broader influence, but the reality is that real growth happens when you invest your life in one place. Building trust, understanding the culture, and planting deep roots take time, but the results are worth it.

That doesn’t mean the journey will be easy. Missionary life is full of challenges, and the road can be long and uncertain. But God is faithful, and if He has called you, He will provide what you need to carry out the work. When Jenny and I started, we weren’t fully funded, and we still aren’t, but we’ve seen God meet our needs in miraculous ways. Trust Him and be ready to take steps of faith.

Preparation is also key. Whether it’s through Bible college, training programs, or personal study, take the time to prepare yourself spiritually and practically. Understand the culture and language of the place God is calling you to. If you’re married, make sure your spouse shares your vision and calling—having Jenny by my side has made all the difference in the world.

Finally, surround yourself with a strong support system. We’ve been incredibly blessed by our sending church, Lewis Avenue Baptist Church, and by the generosity of other churches and individuals who have come alongside us in this ministry. Missionary work is never a solo effort. It takes the prayers, encouragement, and financial support of others to make it possible.

If God has called you to missions, embrace it wholeheartedly. It’s not an easy life, but it’s a fulfilling one. There’s no greater joy than serving God and seeing lives transformed by the gospel. Commit to the calling, stay faithful, and watch as God does more than you could ever imagine.

Looking to the Future

As I reflect on the past and all that God has done in and through our ministry, I’m filled with hope and anticipation for the future. There is still so much work to be done, and my heart is burdened to reach even more people with the gospel. I want to see our church continue to grow, both spiritually and numerically, and to be a shining light in our community and beyond.

One of my primary goals is to train and equip more national leaders through our Bible Institute. These men and women are the future of the ministry, and I want to ensure they are prepared to plant churches and spread the gospel across Mexico and other Latin American countries. By investing in their growth, we’re not just adding to the ministry—we’re multiplying it.

We also dream of expanding our facilities to better serve the needs of our church, Bible Institute, and Christian school. Providing security and stability for the ministry is essential, not just for today but for generations to come. These buildings represent more than physical structures—they’re tools that allow us to minister to people, educate young minds, and equip leaders for the work of the gospel.

Another important focus is raising up leaders who can take over the ministry when the Lord says it’s time. It’s not about building a ministry around myself; it’s about creating something that can thrive without me. I want to leave behind a legacy of faithfulness and a ministry that will continue to flourish long after I’m gone.

Of course, none of this is possible without God’s provision and the support of others. We still need financial help to fund the ministry and volunteers to assist with the work. Most importantly, we need your prayers—for strength, wisdom, and guidance as we follow God’s plan for our lives and ministry.

Looking to the future, my hope is that we’ll see even more lives transformed, more churches planted, and more people equipped to serve God. It’s an exciting journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of what God is doing in Mexico.

Conclusion: A Life of Fulfillment

As I look back on my journey as a Baptist missionary in Mexico, I see a life that has been richly blessed by God. From the early days of answering His call to the challenges and triumphs of building a ministry, every step has been a testament to His faithfulness. I’m grateful for the privilege of serving alongside my wife, Jenny, and our four children, and for the opportunity to continue a legacy of missions that began with my grandfather and father.

This life isn’t always easy, but it’s deeply fulfilling. There’s no greater joy than seeing lives transformed by the gospel, families strengthened by faith, and communities growing in unity and love. God has used this ministry to shape not only the people we serve but also me personally. Through every challenge and victory, He has taught me to trust Him more deeply and rely on His guidance.

As I move forward, my prayer is that we’ll continue to see God work in powerful ways. Whether through reaching more people, planting more churches, or training the next generation of leaders, I know that the best is yet to come. But this work isn’t something we do alone—it’s a partnership with those who pray for us, support us financially, and volunteer their time to help the ministry grow.

I want to encourage you to consider how you can be a part of the mission field, whether it’s through your own calling or by supporting missionaries around the world. Pray for us, for the people of Mexico, and for the gospel to reach every corner of the earth. Together, we can make an eternal impact for God’s kingdom.

Thank you for taking the time to hear our story. I hope it inspires you to trust God’s plan for your life and to step out in faith, no matter where He leads you. It’s a journey worth taking.