As believers in Christ we are typically thankful for what Christ did on the cross for us. We really do not have the ability to fully understand all that he went through during the passion event. However, with Thanksgiving right around the corner this week I thought I would share like so many other what I am thankful for as a missionary. Of course this list is not in order and I have condensed it down due to the number of these people will read this week.

As a missionary I am thankful for technology that makes it easier to be away from family and friends. We can still see and interact with one another on a regular basis and the cost is relatively small. I am thankful that we can turn around and use some of this same technology to encourage others to share the gospel from America to the nations.

I am also thankful for supportive family. If you know a missionary that has any relative that says something along the lines of, “Are you done with that yet?” or “Well don’t you think its about time for you to come home” Statements like those cause missionaries to pull away from family members. Don’t get me wrong my family would love to have us back in the states. Like I have said before, its not easy. But they want us to be Obedient first.

I am also thankful for coworkers. Other missionaries that partner together to be family in times of need. I cannot remember the number of times that we have called on a coworker for help just like we would a family member close by in the states. I am also thankful for church partners that send out missionaries to the harvest. I am thankful for their partnership, purpose, and passion in fulfilling the great commission.

May the Lord give you peace and comfort this Thanksgiving.

Tags: Missionary, Churches

Recently I have talked with missionaries and church staff about the struggles of mission work. Many of us with a little experience will share willingly that no mission sending agency or church is without problems. Missionaries understand that we cannot change everything. We have to choose our battles, and lets be honest with one another, there are some things that are just not worth it.

I personally have let some items go. I recognize that I am not the person to change the system, no matter how much it needs to change. As I was having this conversation with another missionary couple they encouraged me to let go of the things I have no control over but at the same time not to give up on the items that I can change. I thought for a few minutes and realized that they were right. I can't just throw in the towel. Not that I really want to, I just need to adjust my attitude accordingly to bring about change in my life and in the lives of those I lead.

A couple of items that have always brought a great deal of comfort in my life is first and foremost is the understanding that God has a plan and is in control of my life, career, and sending organization. All I have to do is maintain my relationship with Him and be obedient to what He asks me to do. It's that simple. I know what your thinking, "Easier said than done." Of course it's easier said than done. If the Christian life was easy everyone would believe, act, and obey as we do. Another comfort I have found in my journey of life is that biblical success is based off of obedience. They only time success is mentioned in the Bible is when someone did exactly what God asked them to do. Knowing that is freeing to someone that is in the middle of a system that needs to change. Don’t get me wrong, the day might come when we will need to make a change in church or sending organization. But that time is not now. I am sure that many of you are approaching those crossroads in your ministry. 

So in the coming months as I prepare for yet another transition in my mission career, I ask you to join me in praying for better, healthier churches, who will send healthy members to the mission field in order to make disciples of all nations.

Tags: Churches, Organizations, attitude