Having served in a good many mission projects I have often wrestled with a very simple question, Why Go? People say it and it is true, that there are plenty of people right here near where we live that need to hear and understand the Gospel message. Why would I need to pick up and go halfway around the world to find some one to talk to, or work with so that they might come to know Christ?
Today's entry in the timeless devotion book written by Oswald Chambers is on this subject. I invite you to think about a couple of thoughts I have here about mission work and then read his powerful thoughts about going on mission after you complete my blog. There is a link at the end.
Mission Work has three parties involved. The one who goes, the one who sends, and the one who receives. Which of these matters most? Well, the one who calls and sends is of course the Lord Jesus Chirst. He is the reason and the one who told us to go and make disciples in the Great Commission Matthew 28:19-20. If He calls you to go, then you should go. It is that simple. Missions is God's work directed and organized and carried out by God using His people who are obedient to his call.
Chambers does a wonderful job of talking about this today. All too often now days the need of people seems to drive the mission programs of so many organizations and agencies. People often say "Where is the greatest need?" as if they want the biggest challenge they can find to tackle it. And whose glory are you working for with that thought in the back of your mind? The need does not and should not drive the work of missions, but the call of the Savior to missions is the only voice that must be heard. "Go, I send you." Jesus said.
The Apostle Paul wanted to go several places, but again and again he was guided by the Holy Spirit only to the places God wanted Paul to work.. When Paul heard the call, he was on his way. But not until the call came.
Being responsible for Builders for Christ and the task of finding a location for a large group of people who build to go to be on mission is something I have come to realize is a formidable task. God's people need (there is that word) lots of things built. But we as a group need to find the place God wants us to serve Him. It is the Lord in our lives that moves us to serve. It is the Lord who must get the glory for all work by his creation.
So the thought is simply this, when God stirs your heart to go on a mission trip. Do not consider how much it will cost. Do not say, "Do I have the time." These things are given you by God. The only true question to ask yourself is: "Has God spoken to me to go?" If He has then go. If you are not sure ask HIm. He will let you know if you listen to His voice.
Note this link moves with the date this blog post is based on Oct 26 entry by Chambers
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