How I was Called to the Mission Field

 

I have had a desire to work in youth ministry for as long as I can remember. As a child I worked in a Sunday School classroom on Sunday’s with my mother.Since then, I have volunteered and worked at a daycamp program ran through my church. I  volunteer with grade 6-8s on Wednesday nights and Sunday Mornings for youth. So it was no surprise really when I felt lead to go to school for youth ministry. Everything I had grown up doing had been oriented around children/youth ministry.

 

After Christmas Break I had returned to college for our Freshman’s mission trip. I really did not want to go. I thought it was a waste of time and good for nothing, to be honest. But, as it was required through the school, I went. This trip lead us into the heart of Calgary (which was one of the biggest homeless areas in Canada). We worked alongside The Salvation Army, The Jesus Loves You Society and other of which names aren’t coming to me.

 

We also did street evangelism, which lead us into the night streets giving hot chocolate and cookies to the homeless who would accept. This was also a time where I got to hear stories of how these lovely people ended up in the situation they were in. Some mentioned drugs and alcohol, while others, run ins with the law and just not able to afford the high housing costs in Calgary. One story that I can remember so clearly, which changed my heart from black to ‘a warmer tone’, was from a man named Rocky:

 

First off, Rocky is one of my favourite names ever (My last name is Cave… funny little joke)!  Rocky instantly caught my attention when he introduced himself. He explained to me how he was a pastor at a church in British Columbia and ended up getting into trouble with the law by doing some sinful things. He shared how bad he felt for doing the things he did. As it wasn’t only hurting others, it was hurting Christ. He was so intent on telling me how God had changed his life. Which was what I thought I was supposed to be doing to him. It was amazing to hear how his dependence on God had gotten him through his most troubling times. Rocky not knowily, challenged me to share Christ with others, like he did with me.

 

Now I, like Rocky want to share Christ with the World.  I get excited when a friend asks about Creation or another asks to delve into the Bible with me.

 

A key passage that has motivated me into missions has been Psalm 63. It talks about a longing or hunger for God and the security that he offers us from evil things.

 

 

 God Bless,

-Chris Cave-