The “Why” is Greater Than the “What”
New COO Gives the U.S. Team Direction
During his chapel sermon on May 24, Tom Overton, who serves as OMS USA’s chief operating officer (COO) shared his favorite leadership adage: “If you can get your team concerned about the 'why,' the 'what' will naturally come out of that.” The “why” is more important than the “what.”
Tom began his new role on April 1, 2023. During his first several weeks as COO, he spent time in every department, learning the details of how each facet contributes to the larger mission.
Tom met one-on-one with many OMS staff members, hearing about their passions, challenges, and reasons for working at OMS. These discussions gave Tom an in-depth look into what OMS is and what it should be. They revived his heart and stoked his passion, not for “what” OMS does but “why” we do what we do.
Entering the COO position, he was nervous about becoming consumed with details of the ministry and forgetting his purpose in working at OMS. God is concerned with what his servants do; however, he is more concerned with the hearts and attitudes we have toward our work.
Working as a chaplain with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, Needham Community Fire Department, and the Indianapolis International Airport, Tom has seen death often. His frequent encounters with the fragility of life remind him of the uncertain timing of death.
Tom reminded us of the world’s desperate situation and that many people are dying without the hope of Jesus. This is where OMS finds its purpose, in supporting global missions as we bring the news of salvation to the world.
Tom also read from Genesis 7:15-16, noting that when God reached down from heaven, shut the door to the ark, he directly interacted with Noah and his family. OMS does not have an ark that offers shelter to the world, but it has the message of hope that Jesus sacrificed himself for the sins of the world.
It matters that OMS shares the Gospel with those around us. The “why” behind OMS is telling the world that Jesus was pierced for them. Tom encouraged OMS staff to not get so caught up in what they do from day to day. The ultimate goal is to bring the Gospel to those who need to hear it.
By Hannah Kemper, OMS Journalism Intern, Summer 2023