NOTE: The this blog is inspired by an old friend who stated up a lifestyles clothing company called “Go(o)dLife.” Check them out at www.glife.org
Often the things that appear so great from a spectators view aren’t as expected once lived. This Race for example appears incredible, exciting, always fun, easy and fulfilling. Although the close up, personal experience of it is difficult, at times disappointing, stretching, challenging and a test of faith and patience.
Those of you who are getting ready for this great big adventure of the World Race prepare yourself to be let down. You will be let down by friends from home, by teammates, by family, by your squad, your squad leaders, contacts and even the organization. Don’t read this wrong – I am not telling you to “Quick, back out now while you still can!” What I am saying is, you have expectations. Whether you know it or not they are there and what matters in the situation is how will you respond. Will you become bitter, bottle it up, and only tell your journal what it is you’re feeling. Will you allow yourself to be hurt, upset, disappointed and angry? Will your pride get in the way of letting yourself allow others to really see you and to be there for you?
Kingdom minded culture would suggest differently. Kingdom minded culture does not back down. It fights for justice when needed, it causes you to humbly asses your perspective, ask for forgiveness and apologize, all for the betterment of the community. I listened to a podcast recently on “Power and Responsibility” and the pastor stated that justice is putting yourself in discomfort for the sake of a better, stronger, and more healthy community.
This life that we live as Christians is first for God, making our lives good. Being a missionary and heading out away from home in a life lived out of a backpack is not comfortable. This trip is attractive with the many countries we visit and the opportunities presented are alluring. However, that does not make it good. What makes it good is its purpose is to bring glory to the Father.
Everything used to advertise these 11 months are mini moments that make each month worth it and good. What is not presented through photos, videos, and blogs is the amount of time waiting, the canceled ministry appointments, the complaining, the heartache of disappointment in others, the homesickness, or the pain of internal growth.
A “good” life is a life directed by God. A friend once told me that there’s nothing I can do to make my life better, more fulfilling or of purpose then truly loving the Lord. Whether I’m a barista, a graphic designer, a missionary, or a Walmart cart getter, the only thing that matters is my love for the Lord. My love for the Lord changes my life in a direction that is lived for him and in return my life is “good.”
