Scripture
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
Ephesians 5:1-2 (NLT)
As Christians, we are all called to be in the mission field (Matthew 28:18-20) but it can seem so intimidating. Where do I begin? Who do I speak to? What if I get tongue tied? Why must missions seem so big?
We tend to forget that it simply begins with love and we have examples to imitate and follow in the mission field. In life as we grow up, we imitate our parents, mentors, and even teachers. In the mission field, we are to imitate how God and Christ showed love.
Through the Israelites wanderings (and complaining) in the desert, God provided every need for them and kept moving them toward the promised land. God also kept His promises to the Israelites. He made them into a great nation and even brought them back after exile. Christ healed the lame, ate with those deemed “less than”, and spoke with all those he came across in his travels.
These are just a few examples of loving others through providing for others, healing others, and just being with others in a time of need. So many more examples can be found throughout the Bible.
While missions seems hard (and it can be in some ways) we have to remember that it has a simple place to begin. It begins with love. When we enter into missions with love, God will work in mighty ways no matter the size of our mission. He is sending us into the world to spread His love and we should be ready to share it (1 Peter 3:15). No door is closed when we enter with love.
Reflection Questions
- How have you seen God show His love in your life or the lives of those around you recently?
- How have you seen missions working in your church? In your life?
- What fears are holding you back from missions?
- Are there different values of missions to God? (ex. Building a house vs. spending time with someone)
Prayer
Ask God to begin to reveal what he would have you do at camp this summer, to take away any fears you have about missions, and to remind you that all missions help in His greater mission no matter how small.