Perhaps I should back up just a bit before I get into those two desires. And tell you where I am at in regards to my desire to pursue missions. In the last two weeks... mostly this week, I believe that God has confirmed in my heart that I am going to live in Africa long term. Now you may think..."I thought she already decided that" and I definitely felt God's calling but was not quite sure in what capacity or length. But ever increasing in my heart is a burning desire and a knowing that I am called to live and serve our glorious God overseas. I am aware that this is a huge decision, and should not be made lightly, but God's direction of my life seems unmistakably clear to me. And in God's graciousness and kindness He has aligned my desires so that I my heart yearns to follow this path. Indeed I feel such an ache for the people over there, that the frivolity with which we live our lives (talking to myself here) pains me. I feel so strongly about this but I am not sure how to express my thoughts. Perhaps I will talk about this more in a different post, and move on for now. I don't know the exact time or through what organization this will happen. Only that in my heart I feel the Lord leading me and feels like it will be in the near future.
So now back to where we started out....two desires. Initially the verse that grabbed me for missions on Aug 14th was John 10:16 "I have other sheep that are not of this fold, I must bring them also...". There are people out there who are living their lives with no knowledge of Jesus Christ. They are separated from the only One who brings joy and peace and eternal life. They are damned to eternal torment.
Revelations 14 says "he will be tormented with fire and sulfer in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast."
What a sobering verse. Really allow the words to sink in. If that verse doesn't move your heart in compassion for the lost in the world I don't know what will.
So one of the desires of my heart is to spread the gospel to the truly unreached and unengaged people groups. To be a means of calling some of God's elect to Himself who have never heard the name of Christ! What a calling! When I think of myself in that calling I see myself serving in North Africa witnessing to the Muslims there! It is such a compelling call! And in some ways I feel I have the perfect personality for such a ministry. God has given me a boldness that I think would thrive on such a challenge. Is this why you made me the way I am Lord? In my mind it would make perfect sense.
But on the other hand he has given me a strong compassion for people who are suffering and the ability to empathize with them. I feel a deep desire to serve the poor and destitute of Africa. I was reading the blog of a girl who lives in Africa and works with starving children and my heart was so incredibly moved. It was eyeopening and heartbreaking to see these little bodies ravaged by disease and malnutrition. Living lives that seem so hopeless. I wanted to hop on the next flight to Africa and join this girl in her ministry that very moment. In this ministry I see myself serving the practical needs of these children and showering them with love and kindness. But more importantly pointing them to Jesus. Sharing Christ love and showing them their desperate need of a savior! Is this my call oh Lord?!
What have you called me to? I am crying out to you Lord to show me your will for my life and to lead me to the ministry you have called me to.....and I know that in Your perfect timing you will reveal more fully Your call on my life. Thank you Lord!
Whichever the Lord leads me my ultimate mission and goal will remain the same. To bring all glory and honor to God and to bring others in to worship of His glorious name!
I appreciate your prayers as the Lord continues to lead me.
