Missionary Found

Its only been almost 4 years since the Lord Jesus interrupted my life and put me on a different path. It is a path that is bipolar to the ways and life of the world. It is the path of discipleship. And don't look at this event as a negative one. I mean, yes in one aspect it was negative, but on the other side it was more positive. Above all I wouldn't trade the treasure I have in Christ for anything this world would give. My life has never been the same. Each day is a battle of its own, and a striving of its own, and a struggle of its own. Its a life that needs more grace so I can become who I am in Christ.

Over the past 6 months I feel different. I have a new look on life and the Lord has given me new direction in being a disciple that makes disciples. I seem to have a drive that I have never had before. My heart and love for the church is where it has never been. My desire for gospel growth in my life and others has never been so huge. My drive and purpose is all together going in a new direction. How awesome God is to do His work in my heart, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. 2009 was a sweet year, and I only rejoice in where my Lord and Savior is taking me so far into 2010.

I feel like a missionary found. My heart seems to be eager to go after those around me (my family, my church family, my community, my friends, etc) with a purpose for gospel growth in their lives as well as mine. While here on earth I am eager to learn and know how the Good Lord has gifted me so I can be more purposeful and diligent to use it for His kingdom and His people. Its going to be a messy year and I am ok with that. Gospel ministry is going to be that way, its hard work, but the end result is life changing for all that get involved in the process. I think SKH said it best, "Gospel ministry is a death sentence, and out of our death comes life in others" (not word for word, but states the point he was making in his sermon "Death is at work")

I can't help but think about Proverbs 27:17 which says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another". And in many ways this could be the theme of 2010 for me. There is much vine work to be done, and I am thankful that the Lord has given me a new heart for gospel ministry. I used to always feel that I couldn't do the work of the ministry unless I was a pastor or a missionary in another country. The funny thing is that why did I ever feel that I would make a difference in those roles if I was not doing it in my own backyard and with those people that the Lord put in my path? There are many around us that need help in gospel growth, which includes myself. Think about what would happen if every Christian viewed themself as a vine-worker and took part in the spreading and working of the gospel? Thinking about the answer to that question just makes me want to go harder in gospel ministry.

Because the good news of the gospel should be transforming our world. When we become a people that understand the gospel and live the gospel in our own lives, and then in turn give it away so that others can have the blessings we have through the gospel, it is going to turn the world up-side down. Our homes will be different, our work place will be different, our church will be different. The world around us would not be able to get over the light of Christ shining in and through our lives. If that doesn't motivate you on to love and good deeds through gospel ministry, maybe start small and examine your own heart. The Lord has done good things, is doing good things and will do good things through His gospel truths. Get it, live it, and give it. Don't waste your life!