As we enter our fourth month on this Race, I’ve realized a recurring pattern and the Great Need of our time…
No, it’s not for food… No, it’s not for clothing… No, it’s not even for technology… It’s for people who will serve others!
(Me and my new friend Loan exploring a tourist city in Vietnam.)
As Matthew wrote, Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few” (Mt. 9:37). I realized this truth while serving at a cafe in Vietnam. There were 6-10 Vietnamese college students for every English volunteer! The students are eager to learn English, to learn about American culture, and, ultimately, are searching for their purpose in life. Opportunity to make a lasting difference in people’s lives, and even in the trajectory of an entire nation, is quite GREAT!
(My teammate Hilary and I with our new friend Huong.)
The apostle John reiterated Matthew’s note, remembering when Jesus said, “Do you not say, ‘Four months more and then the harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest” (Jn. 4:35). Growing up, I remember people would say, “We are living in End Times! Jesus is coming soon!” but then continue in their ways, seemingly expecting others to finish the difficult work Jesus started, calling all people Home. The truth is that the time to finish the work is NOW and the people to do it is all of US!
(My team with some of the college students in Vietnam.)
Furthermore, Paul spoke about the value of faithfulness, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people” (Gal. 6:9-10). I’ve seen the hunger people have for Christ; hearts are open and ready. People are coming to Jesus after seeking healing through witchcraft, monks, shamans, and various other methods that proved insufficient. Only after calling out to Jesus did they find complete healing!
So, two final things…
First, if you’re not sure about Jesus, I encourage you to take a second look… He Himself has said, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door willo be opened.” (Mt. 7:7-8).
Secondly, the need for people who are willing to serve abroad is REAL! Everywhere I have been has a need for more people to love those in their community…! If you or someone you know can type on a computer, play 3 chords on guitar, or simply are fluent in English, consider serving abroad! It’s an exciting adventure, full of joy and purpose, and the kind of work that isn’t unnoticed by those you serve!
