“but…are you sure?” As I reflected on this moment, that phrase ran through my mind. Partially because he asked me that question many times. However, it was more so the fact that this question was so familiar, haunting in a way. How many times have we come face to face with the love of God and our only response was “but…are you sure?” We have a hard time receiving God’s love for us. We often doubt our worthiness and can’t seem to fathom how the Creator could have a personal affection for us as unique individuals. When offered an act of love we squirm inside. We know how wicked we can be, how underserving we are of such a pure love. And the only thing we know to do is say “but…are you sure?” God, are you sure you love me? Are you sure you died for my sins? Are you sure that you can forgive even me? Are you sure that you have a plan for my life? Are you sure I am worth fighting for? The list goes on and on! I myself often forget that Jesus Christ chose to humble himself to the point of leaving the perfection of heaven, making himself human, and suffering rejection, mockery, and a humiliating death.
Over the past few years, I have been showered with gift upon gift from Jesus. He’s given me everything from community and financial provision to freedom from depression & suicidal thoughts replaced with joy, hope, and dreams. So much of that time was spent doubting and trying to “earn it.” It didn’t make sense how a perfect Jesus not only loved me in Word, but in deed. His love was not only displayed on the cross, but is lavishly offered to me every day. Now, when I am tempted to ask, “but…are you sure?” I remember that Jesus chose to come into the world and die on the cross knowing full well that none of us deserve it. What better way to display your love than to lay down your life for someone who doesn’t deserve it? For someone who can never pay you back? That’s what Jesus did and does. He loves. God is love. He can’t help himself and it brings Him so much joy when we receive His love.
So, in all of this, I learned a few lessons. The biggest being that no, the World Race isn’t over for me. All over the world I saw people, individuals, and communities transformed through an encounter with God’s love. It reminds me of Puja, a 14 year old girl we met in India. She was part of a Hindu family who treated her poorly because they believed she was born with an unlucky spirit. Because of this spirit, they let her know every day that she was unlovable. One day she heard someone share about Jesus and how He loves everyone. She boldly asked, “but…are you sure? This God loves even me?” When the preacher told her yes, she accepted Jesus into her life without question. She became the only Christian in her family and village. She buries her Bible outside and sneaks to church every Sunday. We prayed over her as she anticipated persecution as people were becoming suspicious. Why was she willing to risk her life for Jesus? Because His love transformed her. It gave her purpose, hope, joy, and healing. Because someone was willing to tell her the truth, the love of God changed Puja’s life.
Since the love of God changed my life, I want to always be available to speak the truth of God’s love to those around me. That’s the heart of the World Race and I never want it to be over. Yes, even at the risk of being called crazy, making a fool of myself by crying in public, or being completely misunderstood. It’s worth it because I now know without a doubt, that God is sure about his love for me. And the best part is that no matter how many times I ask, He won’t take it back! And that’s true for you too!
MAKE A DONATION: I still need $1,979 to meet my first deadline for the Adventures Fellowship Program. My first deadline of September 1st is approaching quickly. If you are able to support me financially, click “SUPPORT ME” on the left to make a tax-deductible donation. Or, cut out the small online processing fee by mailing a check to:
Adventures in Missions
PO Box 742570
Atlanta, GA 30374-2570
Checks should be made out to “Adventures in Missions”
***Put “PERKINSSHATERIKA” in the memo line of the check!!!!!***
