From the beginning of this process, being referred to as a missionary has been totally freaking me out. I mean, “missionary” is a term used when talking about some amazing person who is willing to get all their teeth pulled in order to never have to worry about flying home because of a tooth ache (reference to Crazy Love). Or someone who sacrifices everything to live with the least of all people. When I hear that word I don’t put myself in that category. I’m not worthy!
The other part of being a “missionary” that I’ve been struggling with is the pedestal that some people are placing me on. I feel as though when I tell people what I’m doing they automatically look/act differently. I hear about how proud they are, and how amazing it is that I’m willing to give up a year of my life…and that’s nice to hear sometimes. But at the same time, is it really THAT amazing? I have found myself not wanting to mention what I’m doing mostly
because I don’t want people to think I’m trying to one up them. I
don’t like the thought of someone feeling like they are less of a
Christian because they aren’t called to serve on an international level.
because I don’t want people to think I’m trying to one up them. I
don’t like the thought of someone feeling like they are less of a
Christian because they aren’t called to serve on an international level.
As I continue to hear it spoken, God is revealing new truths about what a missionary really is. It is so much more than traveling the world in order to share the love of Jesus. Sure, that’s one way to do it, and I’m so thankful that God has given me that passion, but that’s not the only way God gets His point across. More and more I’m looking around and being reminded that God has called us all to serve Him. He’s called each one of us to use our gifts to bring Him glory.
I was talking to a friend the other day, and we got into a discussion about all of this. In the end I looked at her and reminded her that she is a missionary. Is she planning an international trip? No. Is she doing God’s work on a daily basis? Yes. That’s the key. As we live our lives to bring God glory we are being His hands and feet. If we use our gifts and talents to change the world around us we are doing the work of God. You don’t even have to leave your office or your neighborhood to be a missionary.
Don’t get me wrong. This isn’t an excuse for being comfortable by any stretch. This is a challenge to use every moment to bring the glory of God to earth. As we go about business as usual, we need to think about what God is pushing us to do. We should strive to change the lives of the people around us. We need to get a little uncomfortable! Ask the Lord what He wants to do through you today. Be willing to follow where He leads. Stop. Listen. Obey. Bring glory to the Father! I’m praying for God to reveal Himself in a brand new way. I want to see the world turned upside down as His followers begin to take His love across the street, across the nation, and around the world.
I love you all! Thanks for reading!
