JUST DO IT
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’” Romans 10:14-15, ESV
Theme: All believers are called to “go” and share the Good News until the whole world hears.
GOING AND SENDING
Often, we think of “going” only as being on a mission trip, going to people who may never had heard of Jesus. That is surely not all it means, but let’s focus on that for a minute. Most people will not opt to go on a trip to a foreign country, either for short-term or long-term missions. But let’s face it – many more people than those who actually go are probably being drawn to step out of their comfort zone and serve in this way.
Conversely, some people feel compelled to go on mission quite often, either feeling called to the same location or open to whatever need or request is sent to them. I have a friend who is a Physical Therapist. In the last few months, she has discipled believers in the Philippines and served as a therapist and even surgical assistant in a hospital in Kenya. She is ready, willing, and anxious to go on mission!
When I was invited to go on my first mission trip to Ecuador, I was urged to let my friends, family, coworkers, life group, and serving teams know of my trip. I was told to request their prayers and give them an opportunity to support me financially if they felt led to do so. I will never forget my mother’s words: “I have always wanted to go and be a missionary, even for a short time. I believe in missions. I am so glad I can be part of sending you.” As our verse today states, how can they go and preach unless they are sent?
HERE AND NOW
Whether you leave your town or country or not, you too are called to share the Good News! Your neighbors, coworkers, or family members may have heard the Name of Jesus but never “heard” and understood the Good News of His salvation. Notice that I stress that word “heard;” your life’s testimony is surely important, but they need to hear so they can understand and choose Jesus also. Words are important. Telling them is your mission, even if just to your friend across the street!
Make It Personal: Is there someone in mind right now who you know needs the Good News of Jesus? Do you have passport with them to ask how they are doing and start a spiritual conversation? Begin to pray that God would open the door for an opportunity to share. If you are interested in learning more about how to share the Gospel, consider the Cove's Evangelism Foundations class. Whether individually, with a group of friends, or maybe for your entire life group, contact Josh Carosella at jcarosella@covechurch.org for more information.
On the topic of global missions, have you felt the tug of God and been ignoring it? Have you heard of a friend or coworker going on mission? Don’t wait for them to ask: if you can support them in prayer or financially, let them know! It will bind your heart to their work and strengthen their resolve, also. And if you are personally called to go, sign up now!
Pray: Lord, make me attuned to the times when I can share You with people I meet or long-time friends. Open the door of opportunity and help me see it and walk through it. Bless our conversation, that they may truly “hear” and understand the Good News. As You give me opportunities to go, give me courage and confidence to step out in faith. Help me see where I can help others go, also, with my prayers and financial gifts. I want to be “on mission” with You to reach the world with Your Love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read: Romans 10:14-21
Weekly Memory Verse: “because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9, ESV