Feb 07, 2011 Your Part in the Mission
Originally posted on June 24, 2005
“For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God.” II Corinthians 8:3-5
Your Part in the Mission
The first-century Christians in Macedonia took part in the relief of the poor and the spread of the gospel without ever personally visiting the people who benefited from their generosity. They show us that staying home does not mean being uninvolved.
The people of Grace will make up to ten different missions around the world this summer, plus others throughout the year. When you get this email, I will be on one of those missions. But what about those of you who will stay home, do you have a part in global missions?
Absolutely!
Your giving makes missions happen.
Mission trips cost money. Every time you give to Grace, our Grace Missions Fund grows making it possible to support and send people who go.
Your missionary spirit encourages missions to happen.
If you complained each summer when others or I take time and energy away from Grace and give it other places, we would be less likely to go and less effective when we do. Your generous spirit energizes others.
Your prayers empower missions to happen.
God hears every dinnertime prayer for missions, every intercession made during a quiet time, every thought prayer while driving down the road. He hears and He answers, and those who go are strengthened.
Your faithfulness to ministry in Nashville gives credibility to our mission oversees.
Love your neighbor, share the gospel, be salt and light, and do deeds of mercy. We cannot afford to forget our home while we serve abroad.
Your joy is in seeing missions happen.
Not long ago I spoke with someone who has never been on a mission trip with Grace, but who nonetheless takes great joy in being a part of a sending church. She has the spirit, she gives the money, she says the prayers, and she feels the joy of knowing that the name and fame of Jesus is being taken to the ends of the earth.
This year, members of Grace will serve up to a thousand missionaries who touch millions of lives with the gospel. You will never know the people who benefit from your support. But, be assured that someday your joy will be made full as God pulls backs the curtain and gives you a view of all He did through you.
I love being a part of Grace. I love living with you for something bigger than us. I love sharing the “greater affection” for the things of God with you. Let’s build each other up in this kingdom way of living.
Pastor Scott