I'm a big fan of Mission trips. My life was changed when I went on a mission trip right before my senior year in high school. Because of that experience, I believe everyone should have the opportunity to go on a mission trip - domestic or international.
However, as I prepared for a message to some college and young adults this past week, I was challenged to look at the mission field a bit differently. So often I (and many others) view missions as something you go out and do in other towns or countries around the world. But, as I looked at Christ's life (and that of Philip), I remembered that my mission field is right in front of me. In fact, it is wherever God leads me. Let me explain.
Take a minute and read Acts 8:26-38.
- Where was Philip going?
- Who directed him?
- How did God use Philip?
- Teach all people (not just my ministry focus of youth and young adults or those in other cities or countries) about Christ. Whether it is my daughter or my neighbor or a friend I come into contact with, I cannot withhold the love, grace and peace of Christ that has impacted my life for the better. I need to share Him to others.
- I will know when to share when the Lord directs me. Philip was told/directed twice (v. 26 & 29) to go take action that led to the Ethiopian eunuch coming to know the Lord as his savior. Philip just didn't look on the map and say I'm going here and I will do this. No, the Lord directed him. Therefore, I need to be in communion with the Lord for Him to direct me. Philip knew where to go because he knew the voice of the Lord. He knew what the Lord sounded like.