August 27, 2010

Dear Friends,

Last week I continued my series on "Seven Standards for Effective Discipleship." The day's topic was participating in missions.

Acts 1:8 (NIV)
⁸ But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Jesus taught that we must share with those in our world (where we live); dare to reach beyond our own world; and care about the whole world.

Josh McDowell tells the story of an acquaintance who serves as an executive hirer, or as the industry says, a "headhunter." This man has spent an enormous amount of time interviewing executives. Although many words are exchanged in these interviews, his top priority is to get a clear and concise response to his most strategic question, "What's your purpose in life?" He's amazed at how often this one simple inquiry throws top-notched executives for a loop.

One day while he was in the interviewing process, he got a razor-sharp answer to his loaded question. After going through his usual routine of loosening up the prospect through several minutes of disarming conversation, he asked, "What's your purpose in life, Bob?" Without blinking an eye, this schooled businessman replied, "To go to heaven and take as many people with me as I can."

That's a mission statement every believer should embrace. That's why we must participate in missions. That's why we must share with those in our world, dare to reach beyond our world, and care about the whole world. Who will be in heaven because of you?

Grace and peace,
Pastor Jim