The day I got converted, I was overjoyed. I was convinced that Jesus, who encountered me and saved me, must not be kept from the outside world. How could I stay quiet? My life was changed. I was a new person.
I was blind, and at that moment, I started seeing.... I saw the beauty of the gospel. God gave me a new heart. I must share the good news. I was compelled to "surrender" and "sacrifice" my life for the sake of the gospel. And so I thought....the best thing to do is to become a missionary. That thought made me excited!
However.... there was a problem... I was a baby Christian and didn't know that much about the Bible. Even though I grew up Roman Catholic, I did not know a single verse from it. Yes, I was enthusiastic about the gospel. But I knew that I would be unequipped if I was sent into a "mission field". So, I decided to study theology. And I'm glad I did.
I always fantasised about the Christian life. As a baby Christian, I thought the heroes of faith would go out there and sacrifice their lives to share the good news. I thought that was the life of a missionary.
But what if being a missionary or being on a mission doesn't just involve going abroad and being with the poor?
What if it's not just the short-term missions trip?
What if it's not just for those who are "brave?"
What if it's not just for those who felt "called" to share and live the good news?
What if the calling of missions is for every single follower of Jesus?
Before ascending to heaven to be with the Father, Jesus left an incredible mission mandate to the disciples. He said,
Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
John 20:21
What if our mission is to be sent, as a witness of our Saviour, Jesus, wherever we are.
In our neighbourhoods,
in our workplace,
in our school,
at the bus stop...
We are sent as witnesses.
Make sure you don't fall into the trap of thinking: "That's the pastors or missionaries job. I support them financially." Although the latter part is good and commendable, we must not minimize our calling. That is, living a life worthy of the gospel.
God is a missionary God. He sent His Son, and He sends the church to participate in His mission. You are part of the church! So let us bring the good news of the gospel of Jesus wherever we are by being, doing and proclaiming it to the people so they too might be reconciled to Himself.
Evangelism is just one beggar telling another beggar where to find the bread.
D.T. Niles
Look around you. There are many hungry beggars and you know where to find the bread. Lead them to the Bread of Life.
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