ON MISSION FOR JESUS
On occasion I’ve met people who question the need to go out on mission trips when there is plenty of “need” here at home. How would you respond to such a statement? Why should we be on mission, crossing geographical, linguistic, digital and cultural boundaries to talk about and show the love of Jesus?
Here are five reasons to be on mission for Jesus:
1. To enjoy Christ. I was recently reflecting with my wife about mission trips and she insightfully remarked that mission trips have a more exclusive focus of spending time with Jesus. On mission, many of the busyness, obligations, and distractions of life fade away as our focus turns towards prioritizing Jesus throughout the day, looking for opportunities to enjoy Him and be part of His work. Think of Jesus’ disciples: three years of following, listening, witnessing, and enjoying Jesus. On mission, we enjoy Christ.
Acts 4:13 “And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”
2. To share Christ. The world has heard of KFC, Coca-Cola, as well as much about American politics, sports, and entertainment. But have they heard of our Jesus? “67% of all humans from AD 30 to the present day have never even heard the name of Jesus Christ…and around 30 million people this year will perish without hearing the message of salvation” (Baxter 2007, 12). Can you believe those numbers? Many all over the world have never heard the name of Jesus or have ever clearly understood the message of salvation. On mission, we share Christ.
Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
3. To obey Christ. Christians are empowered and in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit with the assigned task of bearing witness to the greatness of God. Hudson Taylor helpfully reminds us that “the Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.” On mission, we obey Christ.
Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
4. To bring hope. The world can be a dark and dreary place, devoid of joy and expectation. Christians have a hope that transcends earthly sorrow and suffering. May we be faithful to prepare, share, and dare to go out with the message of eternal hope! On mission, we bring hope.
1 Peter 3:15 “always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect”
5. To speak truth and to show love. Satan has deceived the world through lies and ignorance. Many have been mislead and are spiritually blind. Billions seek pleasure in the things of this life rather than experiencing the overwhelming love of Jesus. Paul Little explains that “Witnessing is that deep-seated conviction that the greatest favor I can do for others is to introduce them to Jesus Christ.” On mission, we speak truth and show love.
Ephesians 4:25, 5:2 “let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor…and walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us”
If we fail to reach out with the love, truth, and hope of Jesus we miss out on so much. May we be faithful to be on mission here, there, and everywhere with the days, gifts, and resources that the Lord has given us!