A Word from Your Mission Strategist, Steve Laughman
This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come. – Matthew 24:14
Why do we go to the ends of the earth to preach the good news of the Gospel? Aren’t there people right here in middle Georgia who desperately need Jesus? I wonder if the apostles wondered the same thing. As Jesus was talking to them about the Gospel being preached in the whole world, could they have ever imagined how big this world is or how many people would some day need to hear?
Believe it or not there are still placed in the world where the Gospel has not been preached. We call the people who live there “unengaged” or “unreached” people. Living where we do it is nearly impossible to imagine that there are places where people have never heard that there is a Savior who was sent to redeem us from our lost condition and reconcile us to our Creator who loves us. Aren’t you thankful that you have heard? Now, what should we do with this glorious message we have received.
Perhaps the Lord is calling you to go to the ends of the earth. Have you ever considered that? Colonel Sanders was 62 years old when he opened his first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant. Missions is not just for young people. Marni and I have friends who spent over 10 years in South Africa AFTER they retired. Although, God is also calling young people to missions. Perhaps you are just beginning your career or considering what life after college will be like. Have you thought about becoming a Journeyman and spending two years on the mission field? The opportunities are available for everyone.
I guess what I am saying is that none of us should answer the call to missions with an excuse. God may very well intend for you to spend your life serving Him right where you are. But He may also have other plans. Let’s not limit what He will accomplish through us. I can say with full confidence that there are plenty of fellow believers in your church and in your community who will do everything in their power to support you as you go.
As I write this note to you, we are three days away from REFOCUS. This event has once again reminded me of the value of missions. My prayer is that we will see many respond to the call to go.
