Yesterday, I spent the day teaching outgoing missionaries. They always amaze me, and here’s why:
- They are giving their all to serve the Lord overseas. That’s not to say that others don’t give their all; it’s just a recognition that these folks and their families are making a big sacrifice for Christ.
- They are faithful to their calling, no matter their age. From the young couple with baby in arms to the senior adults with grandchildren at home, these faithful believers want to be obedient to God . . . no matter where He sends them.
- Their faith stretches me to the level of discomfort. I simply haven’t made the decisions and sacrifices they’ve made. To be honest, my faith has cost me very little compared to what others face around the world.
- Many are moving young families overseas in accordance with God’s calling. It’s one thing to make this move when you’re my age (60) with no kids at home. It’s another matter when you’re moving little ones clinging to your neck.
- Many are giving up much of the “American dream” for the sake of the gospel. Pam and I have a lot of “stuff” we would be hard-pressed to give up. These folks, though, are walking away from stuff because they know the Truth matters.
- They represent generations of believers who make it possible for any of us to serve God in our respective roles. We get to do what we do because other believers give sacrificially to God’s work. We are privileged to stand on the shoulders of others who’ve often paid a heavier price than we have.
- They are trusting us to pray for them as they go. The world to which they are going is a dangerous place—and they want to know they are “prayer-covered” as they go. This is not the time to only talk about prayer; it is the time to pray.
What would you add to this list?