Therefore, imitate God like dearly loved children. 2 Live your life with love, following the example of Christ, who loved us and gave himself for us. He was a sacrificial offering that smelled sweet to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 (CEB)
You’ve just spent a week serving with a group of people in a very specific, very demanding way. And if there’s one thing you probably didn’t feel like when you were done, it’s an offering that smells sweet to anyone. But as you rest from your week of work, our hope is that you are inspired, not just to come back next year, but to find ways to imitate God and follow the example of Christ next week…next month…and all throughout the year.
God’s mission is not something you engage with only on mission trips. A mission trip like Impact should serve to give you excitement for your life of mission. Keep your eyes open to the opportunities – they were easy to see during your week at camp.
They may be more difficult to see in your daily life, but they could be even more rewarding – something worth committing your whole self to. As you go, throughout the year, imitate God wherever you go. Give everything you have. The camp experience will be there next summer to recharge and challenge you. But it will also be a chance for you to share what you have learned as part of God’s mission throughout the past year.
Questions for Reflection
- Where do you see God active in your community?
- How can you be a part of what God is doing there?
Prayer
God who sends us and walks with us, help me to see the places where I can live out the example you have given me in Christ.