Joy Echoes Through the Generations — Carol McLeod Ministries
A Note from Carol: One of the greatest joys of my ministry is sharing voices that stir the soul and awaken purpose. Today, I’m honored to introduce you to Michelle Ule—an author and historian who brings faith-filled stories from the past to life. Through her writing, Michelle reminds us that God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways. Her reflections on legacy, obedience, and joy will inspire you to live your faith with purpose and hope.
This was the fruit of OMS: local believers trained and empowered to share the gospel in their own language, in their own communities.
I sighed deeply, soaking in the moment captured by that image.
But then a stray thought darted through my mind: “These men are all dead.”
I sat up, startled by the sudden weight of truth. Of course they were. The photo was nearly a century old. But then, something more chilling whispered into my heart: “Martyred for the gospel.”
Where had that come from?
And yet, I knew the history. In that time, in that country, following Jesus came at a great cost. Their joy had likely led them into persecution. Some—maybe all—had paid the ultimate price.
But almost as quickly as sorrow rose, another thought came, gentle and reassuring: “You’ll see them in Paradise. You’ll know their names.”
My heart stilled.
Because of Jesus—and because of faithful missionaries like Lettie Cowman and her husband Charles—those men live.
They are part of the great cloud of witnesses.
They are part of our story.
Lettie Cowman didn’t seem destined for a global ministry. Raised in rural Iowa in the 1870s—Laura Ingalls Wilder country—she didn’t know how to cook. She didn’t pack her own suitcase until she was 57.
But she knew how to obey the call of Jesus.
She knew how to sit with people in their loneliness. She knew how to talk about the Savior she loved. She knew the power of prayer. And she knew joy—deep, abiding joy that transcended time and culture and even suffering.
That legacy has influenced millions of people across the globe.
As I wrote about Lettie’s faith, determination, and joy, I couldn’t help but examine my own life.
I may never travel the world, but like Lettie, I can listen. I can love. I can tell someone about Jesus.
And you can, too.
You don’t need a passport or a microphone or a seminary degree. You just need a willing heart.
You listen. You ask the Holy Spirit for words.
And then you wait…
Watch for joy to spring up in the most surprising places.
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy."
—Psalm 126:5 (NIV)
Thanks be to God.
Discussion Question:
What legacy of faith are you building today—and who might be watching, listening, or receiving joy because of your obedience?
Learning About Lettie Cowman with Michelle Ule
In this inspiring episode, Carol McLeod sits down with author Michelle Ule to explore the remarkable life of Letty Cowman—the woman behind the beloved devotional Streams in the Desert. Michelle’s new book, Overflowing Faith, offers an intimate look at Letty’s deep love for Jesus, her passion for missions, and the enduring power of her words. Michelle shares Letty’s journey from a privileged upbringing in Iowa to becoming a pioneering missionary in Japan, the first female president of an international missionary society, and the heart behind one of the best-selling devotionals of all time.
You’ll hear stories of Letty’s extraordinary faith, her partnership with her husband Charles, and how God used her obedience to reach millions—even in the face of war, grief, and cultural barriers. From Japan to Europe, from grief to global missions, Letty’s story reminds us that significance doesn’t require perfection—just a willing heart.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
How Letty Cowman and her husband led a campaign to bring the gospel to every home in Japan
Why Streams in the Desert has never gone out of print in over 100 years
How Letty learned to hear God’s voice through worship and scripture
What we can learn from Letty's fearless leadership as a woman in ministry
How Michelle Ule brings history to life through the stories of faith-filled women
Books Mentioned:
Overflowing Faith: Letty Cowman and Streams in the Desert by Michelle Ule
Streams in the Desert by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman
Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman behind the World's Bestselling Devotional by Michelle Ule
Don’t miss Michelle’s heartfelt prayer for anyone feeling called to share the story of Jesus in their own unique way.
Connect with Michelle Ule:
Website: michelleule.com
Facebook & Instagram: @michelleulewriter
The Significant Women Podcast with Carol McLeod is edited and produced by WileyCraft Productions. Visit https://wileycraftproductions.com/ to learn more.
