The lack of fervor for missions is a problem in itself, but I think that the problem extends beyond this particular to how we understand our calling in light of the gospel. I wish to explore this from two angles. First, whether we take seriously the (very biblically based) concept that "everyone is called to missions, but only some are called to go." That is, whether we are properly executing the Church's mission in other cultures. In another post, I hope to look at the second area: How those who who stay in their own culture can make decisions in their life to impact their own culture for the gospel.
The mantra that was pummeled into my mind from an early age in the church was that, "Some are called to go, some are called to send (financially), all are called to pray." Unfortunately, this is hardly ever faithfully enacted. The model for prayer for missions is not passive, but rather striving together for the sake of the gospel (Romans 15:30).
My assertion is this: Those of us that stay in our own cultures and support missionaries who go (through prayer and finances) should expect our lives to be disturbed by the cost of the gospel going out to the nations. We ought to prioritize both our time and finances to serve the gospel, perhaps even at the cost of other opportunities. It is impossible to say generally what this looks like for each person, and I won't suggest much in the way of pragmatics here. As much as conversation needs to happen in these areas, a reformation of missions will only happen among those who radically center their lives on the hope given in Christ. Is there hope beyond the grave? Have we been given promises in Christ greater than this life can offer? Then to live means service of Christ, and death is gain! Our lives are not our own.
I pray that I would be faithful to Christ in the faith of death. A one time giving of self for Christ seems simple compared to living life day to day as if my life is not my own. A life of continual sacrificial giving, earnest, engaged prayer (such that one aches with the sufferings and struggles of those in the missions field), or even giving up a life in America that is very appealing—that is a challenge I cannot face alone. As the martyr relies on God for faithfulness in the face of death, so rely on God's grace for faithfulness in every moment of life.
Up next: On False Entitlement
My assertion is this: Those of us that stay in our own cultures and support missionaries who go (through prayer and finances) should expect our lives to be disturbed by the cost of the gospel going out to the nations. We ought to prioritize both our time and finances to serve the gospel, perhaps even at the cost of other opportunities. It is impossible to say generally what this looks like for each person, and I won't suggest much in the way of pragmatics here. As much as conversation needs to happen in these areas, a reformation of missions will only happen among those who radically center their lives on the hope given in Christ. Is there hope beyond the grave? Have we been given promises in Christ greater than this life can offer? Then to live means service of Christ, and death is gain! Our lives are not our own.
I pray that I would be faithful to Christ in the faith of death. A one time giving of self for Christ seems simple compared to living life day to day as if my life is not my own. A life of continual sacrificial giving, earnest, engaged prayer (such that one aches with the sufferings and struggles of those in the missions field), or even giving up a life in America that is very appealing—that is a challenge I cannot face alone. As the martyr relies on God for faithfulness in the face of death, so rely on God's grace for faithfulness in every moment of life.
Up next: On False Entitlement
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