“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Living outside of the United States during the 4th of July is a bummer. I am a very patriotic guy. Maybe that comes from the fact that I served with the military or maybe it’s because I am the fruit of immigrant parents who found hope and opportunity in America. The bottom line is that I am grateful for the U.S. of A!
So it was a delight to spend time hanging out with Americans eating grilled bratwursts and hamburgers for the holiday. There was a moment during our hang out that struck me in an awesome way. All the women were talking “girly” things (j/k) while all the guys circled ‘round. A few of us were drinking wine but all of us had a plate of barbequed goodness in our hands. As our kids ran around we talked about our future ministry endeavors. Some of us would be traveling to remote places or getting involved in somewhat dangerous adventures. As we listened to each other’s stories and plans my mind flipped over to a scene in a movie.
Five missionaries and their families were enjoying fellowship in a jungle in South America in the movie “The End of the Spear.” As they joked around enjoying food and friendship, the men brainstormed plans to reach a lost tribe while their kids played in the background and their wives talked girly things (j/k). I remember watching that film and dreaming that I would one day be in their shoes.
Sure, we weren’t in some remote jungle, but all of our hearts are in the same place. We have a desire to reach the lost. And yes, we have internet access, we’re all bloggers and utilize Facebook and Twitter…but the root of what we do also existed in those five missionaries in that jungle who ended up sacrificing their lives – the root of God’s love and His message of hope.
Sometimes I forget that as a missionary, I have decided to shed desires that don’t pertain to reaching the lost. It is when we gather with other missionaries that we remember our ultimate purpose in this country. I was grateful for our July 4th gathering because it renewed in me my excitement to sacrifice everything for the sake of obeying our Lord and Savior. And sure, that excitement shouldn’t occur only when we’re with our missionary friends…but I’ll tell you one thing: Being with likeminded believers can bring encouragement and needed inspiration to change the world!
