I Didn't Go to PNG for Christ, So What's My Mission?
am not an adventurous missionary traveling to the farthest corners of the world. Nor am I a public speaker - the very thought makes me shiver and shake. And so, I didn’t go to PNG for Christ. I’m not that kind of gal. I love the comforts of my bed and coffee machine! Plus, I am an introvert. These are good reasons, right? But I love Jesus and want to share in the mission to “go and make disciples of all nations.”
If I’m being honest, I am intimidated by the PNG for Christ statistics. The amazing stories of the Holy Spirit at work in the lives of thousands of people and the massive number of baptisms are jaw-dropping! So, where do I start? How do I start? How can I be a disciple of Jesus and bring the hope of Jesus within my sphere of influence?
The WA Conference slogan is to “Bring Hope”. This is a huge mission! So, how do I bring the hope of Jesus to my world, my every day living? Recently, I was challenged by a Bible verse: “So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” (2 Corinthians 5:20). I am an Ambassador of Christ; what a privilege and responsibility. I have no more reasons to not contribute to the mission. I have been assigned and appointed by the King of all Kings to be an ambassador for Him. There is nothing so important as to share the message of the hope of Jesus.
Being an introvert who loves her own surroundings doesn’t mean a thing! I am still fearfully and wonderfully made, and I can still be a part of the mission in my everyday existence. I can pray that God uses me daily to share in His mission, whether that be a shoulder to cry on, praying with someone who is hurting, watching what I say, feeding and clothing the hungry, or patiently (prayerfully) driving through WA roadworks. I am an ambassador, and when I am faithful in these small assignments (Whoever can be trusted with small things can also be trusted with big things - Luke 16:10), I will continue to grow spiritually, and God will continue to grow His Kingdom through me.
However, note to self: I cannot give what I don’t have to give. I need to daily spend time in God’s presence to have the love I need to share in His mission, to share His love with His children. I love Jesus and want to be a part of “Go and make disciples of all nations.” The work is plenty, and if you are like me and love the comfort of your bed, then let's start small. Let’s seek Jesus in our lives daily so we can share a smile, a prayer, a hand of comfort and generosity, etc. Who knows where Jesus will lead us? Maybe one day, you and I will meet in PNG for Christ and we will no longer need the comfort of our beds!
Natalie Meade
Discipleship Ministries Team Assistant