After returning from a medical mission trip to Honduras, Martha Peacock couldn't stop thinking about the needs she had witnessed. 

For years, members of First Baptist Church in McGehee have traveled annually to Honduras to provide medical and dental care while sharing the gospel. Peacock joined the trip for the first time in 2024 and came home inspired by what she experienced. 

As church members shared stories from the mission field, a common thought emerged. 

Why couldn't they do the same thing in Arkansas? 

That question led Peacock to learn more about the Dixie Jackson Arkansas Missions Offering. While researching how the offering supports missions across the state, she discovered that it helps fund medical and dental clinics in Arkansas communities. 

Peacock contacted Arkansas Baptists leaders and began exploring the possibility of hosting a clinic in McGehee. 

A year later, that vision became reality. First Baptist McGehee hosted a medical and dental clinic that provided care for participants while creating opportunities to share the gospel. 

The clinic mobilized volunteers from across the church. Members served in hospitality, registration, logistics, evangelism and patient care support. 

"I wasn't sure that we'd get enough volunteers, but they've showed up a lot," Peacock said. "Just about all of them have come out and helped." 

The event addressed physical needs through free medical and dental services while intentionally connecting patients with volunteers who listened, prayed and shared the hope of Christ. 

Pastor Thomas Little said the clinic allowed the church to reach people who might never otherwise walk through its doors. 

"We get to minister to folks that wouldn't normally come to church," Little said. "We can meet a physical need they have … and talk to them about their relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s just an awesome opportunity for the church to provide such a service to the community." 

For Peacock, the clinic was a reminder that mission opportunities exist not only across international borders but also in local communities. 

As plans for the clinic progressed, Peacock had moments when she wondered whether enough dental professionals and volunteers would step forward to help. Looking back, she said those concerns only highlighted God's faithfulness. 

"I kept on and leaned on God," Peacock said. "And He came through." 

God's faithfulness was evident throughout the day. 

Before the clinic, Peacock said she hoped at least one person would come to faith in Christ. The outreach resulted in 21 professions of faith. 

The outcome served as a powerful reminder of the impact made possible through faithful churches and generous giving. 

“Without the offering of Dixie Jackson, we wouldn't be able to put on clinics like this,” Little said. “I want to encourage you to get involved, give to Dixie Jackson, invite the Arkansas Baptist State Convention to come and to host this event at your church, and you'll find that you'll be able to connect with your community in a way that's maybe been overlooked for years.” 

Every dollar given through the Dixie Jackson Arkansas Missions Offering stays in Arkansas and supports ministries that meet needs, strengthen churches and advance the gospel across the state. 

For Peacock, the experience reinforced a simple lesson: When God places a burden on someone's heart, obedience can lead to more than they ever imagined.