When Gavin and I first received our calls to missions, Gavin
in 8
th grade and mine in 12
th grade, we could not have
fathomed the “job” God had designed for us. While I believe we all have the
call to, “Go, and make Disciples…” (Matt. 28:19), there are other tasks
required to help fulfill the mission. Gavin has just taken on the
responsibility of finances for our Field. I have begun working on a new Field
website. There are days spent frequently working on things around our house
(fixing toilets, trying to get the float to work properly in our water tank, trying
to get the latch on our front door to close properly, manipulating the motor so
water will be forced into our house, etc.) or trying to get an “expert” to fix
something at our house. Every once in a while an entire morning can go by just
trying to get in touch with the right people. Some day’s (especially those
filled with electricity), I feel like I’m cooking all day long. I’ve always
said that a Missions degree at University should include basic construction,
medical, electrical and plumbing skills.
Even though all the little jobs are just a part of life,
something that has to be done, it doesn’t mean they aren’t important. We
function in other aspects of ministry because the little things get done. We
can’t buy supplies and build a school in a neighboring village if funds aren’t
properly sent. We can’t let people know of the projects and ministries
happening on our Field, the way God is working among people’s lives, unless
they are told and reported on. And, maybe even through some of the less
glamorous “jobs”, we can be humbled and reminded that all we do is for the
Glory of God.
Yes, we get to be with brothers and sisters in Christ
sharing the Word of God together, praying together and discipling believers
together. We get to help with feeding
programs for Children and show the Jesus Film. Gavin has taught a class on the
10 Commandments (all in French). We have dedicated new babies to the Lord,
baptized new believers and shared our Faith with those who believe differently.
It all matters. With the right heart, the right attitude and
eyes focused on the One who called us to serve Him, we make a difference for
the Kingdom of God.
We’re praying that God works in all the details, in all the
small jobs and in all the less glamorous jobs for His Kingdom and His Glory. We
know that those things are necessary to accomplish the mission and vision of
the Church where we are. Equally important to those things and the exciting,
fun parts of missions is the international Body of Christ. We know that if it
weren’t for the support of those from other parts of the globe, the Church
couldn’t do what it needs to be doing here. The Africa Middle Field and the
Church in developed nations have a lot to offer one another. We’re praying that
partnerships would develop and that people would be called to give of their
time, experience and abilities to join what God is doing here.
