Q&A with a SIM Leader: Andrea Wilson

Andrea Wilson, Global Director of Mission Engagement

Tell us a little about your background?

I was born into SIM. My parents, Gerry and Glenda Johnson, served with SIM in Asmara (formerly Ethiopia, now Eritrea) and then in the US.

I went on my first mission trip through Church at Charlotte, a big SIM and Sports Friends mission partner. That, along with the Urbana Missions Conference when I was in college, inspired my call to long-term missions.

I studied Communications and Theatre, which I chose so I could speak the gospel in a relevant way to visually oriented younger generations. Before joining SIM, I served as an International Project Coordinator for a Christian sign company working with global clients.

Tell us a little about your family?

I’m married to the wonderful, fun-loving Monte Wilson, who is Director of Short-Term Ministries with SIM USA. We have three daughters, all born in Bolivia, where we served for nine years. Nicole, 22, is adopted, and studying Early Childhood Education at the University of South Carolina. Kayla, 16, is in high school, plays percussion and is very artistic. Sabrina, 14, is in her first year of high school, and loves children and engineering.

How did God lead you into SIM?

We trained with SIM in 2001, but the Lord led us to another ministry in Bolivia, Hospitals of Hope. Later, we served in ministries started by SIMers, including the Cochabamba International Church and Carachipampa Christian School. Seeing how SIM cared for families helped us appreciate the mission. When the Lord opened the door for us to lead the Short-Term Ministry of SIM USA, which we are both very passionate about, we joined SIM.

What are the key things you hope to achieve in your time with SIM?

Knowing people are living and dying without Christ, yet we have the power to change that, inspires me to want to make disciples and encourage others to do so. In my current role, I long to help support and encourage our mobilisers so this can become a reality.

I strongly believe in prayer and want to see others inspired to take seriously a call to pray for the Lord of the Harvest to send more workers into his harvest fields and for spiritual breakthroughs. I also want to help address barriers to serving, including finding ways to help those raising support in challenging contexts.

What inspires you when life gets difficult?

When things are tough, the Lord’s still, small voice whispers to my heart to continually praise him. Often, he reminds me that I am blessed beyond imagination. When I consider the suffering of the world, I can’t help but praise him, knowing that we’re so unworthy.

What do you do when you’re not working?

You’ll usually find me hanging out with one of my daughters watching a movie, doing crafts, baking, or playing a board game. I also enjoy painting and reading. Monte and I enjoy hiking and kayaking together.

What is your favourite Bible verse and why?

Philippians 4:4-8 is a constant encouragement. It’s a great reminder to release my worries to him and to focus on what is lovely and beautiful and praiseworthy, allowing his peace into my life as he takes the reins.

What piece of technology could you do without/never do without?

I would love not to be tied to my phone! I lose it constantly, so maybe I could live without it…but without alarms reminding me of upcoming meetings, just imagine how late I’d be! (I’m already on South American time.)

How can we pray for How can we pray for you and your family?

Please pray for Monte and I to have strength, energy and use of our time wisely.

Please pray that the faith our daughters had as children will take root in their hearts as young adults, especially as they deal with worldly pressures and other anxieties which so easily press in.