No Announcement Needed

So, I mentioned yesterday that on Wednesday night, a couple shared their missionary journey with our congregation. And what an incredible story. Both come from a rich, multi-generational missionary families. To hear of the work and orchestrating of events that God is unfolding as they serve in Thailand is nothing short of miraculous.

The husband shared how God had worked in his heart and life to bring him to this place of ministry, as he was (and had always wanted to be) a pastor, not a missionary. Then God closed and opened doors to place him, but it wasn't what or where he wanted to be. Sure, it was a struggle until he came to the understanding that he just needed to be faithful where he was.

The reward for doing so, is rich. The stories that have transpired as a result are simply incredible. Things are happening that would have never happened had he been where he desired and not where God needed Him. Yet because of the couple's decision to stick it out and simply "be Christ" where they were, God is bringing results that are greater than what they ever would have been had God answered his first request. Reaping and sowing... where they are planted; not where they wished they were planted.

Which gears to yesterday, mid-day. I catch a sermon, I think on Catholic radio. A priest or bishop preaching on evangelism and missions. And he explains, among other things, the concept of "you are the light of the world".

We are the candle; the work of Jesus Christ having brought light to our life, breaking through the darkness. God holds the candle. The room He walks into, is the world. Wherever God goes, when He enters a room, our very presence should display Christ... His light scatters the darkness of wherever we are. Sure, there's a time to verbal share the message of Christ. But there should be something recognizably different about our lives long before words are spoken.

What candle enters a room and announces itself, "I am a candle." If it is lit, you already know.
So, it is with our lives. If we are lit for Christ, it should be known by whoever is around us, without a word.

Will you join me in prayer? On this #missionsFriday, may the church rise up and allow, to a greater degree, for the light of Christ to be on a display to the darkness of the world around us. Pray that we would not be a people living under the radar, but desirous to be used by God wherever He would desire to place us. Pray for missionaries, struggling in their journey. For the process of becoming a missionary and where they are to go; the funds necessary and the plans moving forward... it is an intense and difficult process. Pray for strength and encouragement as they prepare. May God help them to be faithful, even in the simple moments of simply displaying Christ wherever they go. Pray the rewards would be great, as they sow where they are planted; desirous to impact their world with the gospel of Christ. For there truly is, nothing offensive about God loves you. Except for the thousands upon millions who still need to hear it.

Lights on a hill,
On display for all to see.
Bringing the light of Christ
Wherever we go;
Wherever God places us
For His glory and the cause of Christ.

- PNC

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