It’s not just for missionaries

Who do you admire, look up to?

Over the years I have come to see that many Christians tend to look up to missionaries—to put them on a pedestal as if they are a kind of Super Christian. Pastors and other Christian workers are part of this hierarchy too, although perhaps not elevated as high. I imagine it looks like this:

Although I can understand why this happens, I think it is important to remember that God calls every one of us. The Great Commission doesn’t apply only to a special class of people, but it is directed at every follower of Christ.

Some are called to pack their belongings and go to another land. Some are called to lead a local church. But all of us are called to share the Good News of our Lord Jesus with our family members, neighbors, friends, and co-workers. And sometimes that’s more frightening than traveling across the world and sharing with strangers, because the risk is greater. No one wants to be rejected by those we love—to risk that potential alienation.

So let’s take the missionary off that pedestal. Next time you pray for MAF’s overseas staff, would you also pause and pray for boldness? Boldness for yourself … boldness for the many believers who want to reach out and share the Gospel but don’t quite know how. Pray that we will all be faithful to the Great Commission. Because all of us are called, and the world needs to hear.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19-20a