A few months ago I read a book by Dietrich Bonhoeffer entitled Life Together. Something I read in it really stuck with me, but at the time I wasn't sure why. He explains that being a christian, makes being in the presence of the community of believers an uncommon luxury. I really didn't understand what he meant by that. Now I think I know what he is saying. For Bonhoeffer, he was imprisoned for many many years by the Nazis. So of course, having the opportunity to experience the body of Christ must have been a rare occurence. I have been thinking about how I knew God was first calling me into the ministry. It was a gradual call, but I always felt it strongest among Christians who loved, supported, and encouraged my growth in Christ. I realize now that God was using these times to strengthen my faith, to give me a strong foundation for the many times in life where I would be without this supportive community. Times when I would be "in the mission field."
I have begun to redefine what it means to be a missionary. My job right now is to direct the Peanut Butter Project in Sierra Leone. I am a christian, so I am a missionary at all times no matter what circumstances I am in. I am not to dwell on missing the times of fellowship with family, friends, and mentors, but I am to trust that the community of believers is doing their job at being God's example to the world. I have to think about the here and now of what God is calling me to do daily. Of course this is enough in itself! I am to continue understanding the true meaning of love. The true power of Christ's perfect love as he died for us. And when I do have the opportunity to be with those who share my faith, then I can enjoy it with the knowledge that God is strengthening and preparing me for the work ahead.
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3 comments:
Chelsea you are wise beyond your years. There is no doubt in my mind that you are following a very strong calling of the Lord. It is evident that the Holy Spirit is guiding you.
cheryl
Chels,
You were so very importaint in my renewal of faith. i am so thankful for you. i am also glad that internet is able to shrink the world just enough that i am able to still continue learning from you. thank you for your example of love, it impacts my life huge. i love you and miss you.
This message just shows how much you're in love with....yourself! You use word ''I'' about 20 times and ''Lord'' just 3 or 4.The real christians won't do that.
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