I’m not well versed in sayings of Chinese philosophers, but Laozi was right when he penned those opening words. It is with humble hearts (who are we that we might take part in this marvelous work?) and a bit of trepidation (as we leave behind the life we’ve known) that our family begins our journey in this thing called “missions.”
As I look over its dictionary entry, topping the list of definitions for “mission” is “the act or an instance of sending.” Sounds simple enough, right? But there’s so much wrapped up in those few words when applied to the journey we’re undertaking. There’s someone doing the sending (our local church), there’s a vehicle for movement (New Tribes Mission), there’s something or someone being sent (us), there’s a destination (foreign fields of service), and then there’s the million steps in between.
Wherever the Lord shall direct our steps (Proverbs 16:9), His words to His servant Joshua in the days of old still ring out, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
I know what it is to hear and respond to the command to move in military formation. We move forward now in response to the clear command of our heavenly Father. We invite you to join us on this journey. Ready…step.