Viewing missions as a lifestyle

“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” -Acts 20:24

Among the Christians the term “missions” comes up rather often. The majority of us have either been on a mission trip before, or if not, we know someone who has. The incredible experiences that take place on those trips frequently result in changed lives of those who were ministered to and those who went to minister. But what happens, when we come home from such indescribable encounters with the Lord and life as we knew it just won’t cut it anymore?

Yes, coming back to reality is tough, and the “mission trip high” is a phenomenon that may inspire us to change, however there is something that many of us fail to recognize. Missions are obviously about reaching out to the lost and hurting, but why do we believe that sharing our faith must be accomplished in certain ways and in specific circumstances? The Bible never reserves the preaching of the Gospel to organized trips with youth groups or when our churches send missionaries to foreign countries.

As Christians we should be living our lives as if we are on the mission field 24/7. Our single most important job other than pursuing an intimate relationship with the Creator is to further His Kingdom.

Putting this concept into action may be as simple as encouraging someone at school who seems to be having a tough day, or challenging friends to a higher standard of purity and brotherly-love. Taking this a step further may mean gathering up the boldness to pray for someone while you are in Wal-Mart or even sharing the gospel with someone you meet while standing in line at Chic-fil-A.

God doesn’t put boundaries on where or how we share His good news. All we need to do is make ourselves available for His use. Living fully for the Lord means sacrificing the desires of our flesh and surrendering ourselves entirely to Him, when we do this, no matter what fears we may have, Christ will use us—simply because we are willing to be used. We don’t even have to worry ourselves with finding people to minister to or having the right words to say. All we must do is prepare our hearts, and He will provide the rest.


written:9.9.09