But humans are bizarre. Our interactions with one another define us—our moods, our words, our ideas, and how we see the world. We are reluctantly and continually being shifted by the actions of those around us.
Even knowing the impact of simple interactions, I’m still guilty of falling back on the same excuses when it comes to my role in global mission…
Do I have enough money for this?
Will I be able to contribute anything to the team?
Is this something God is calling me to do?
All of these are good questions, but not necessarily where we should start.
It was in our last global meeting, Director of Global Missions, Randy Watson reaffirmed this idea: “It’s not about us asking, ‘what can I do? Or what can I fix?’, it’s about our partners in countries all over the world asking, ‘will you spend time on us?’
My head spun a little when he said it. It was so simple and so honest that I couldn’t believe I ever thought differently. The impact of just showing up is so much bigger than we give it credit.
We often come in hot with our own perspective, but global mission isn’t about us. Shifting our view really changes things.
What kind of resources do they need in their situation?
What would it be like to feel isolated in my own country? What would it feel like if someone was willing to fly across the globe just to meet me, look me in the eyes, and remind me that Jesus is seeking me?
Have you ever had those moments? Where someone picks you out of a crowd, a stranger stops you in the store, or a friend calls out of nowhere. They take the time to tell you that you are seen and that you matter. Those are goosebump moments. All of a sudden Jesus feels like he’s standing right in front of you. You feel sought out.
Global mission can get so convoluted with excuses. But what about if we started with a base of going out and loving others before we filled ourselves with all the reasons not to go? What if we never factored in how it would benefit us at all? I think it might be life-changing, from all perspectives.