The BODY of Christ working together, praying side by side, fellowshipping shoulder to shoulder, laughing and crying with each other… The need, and may we say the command, for God’s children to “one another” one another has been brought to the forefront of our lives lately.
We remember all too well a time while on the field when Lianne was so physically “fried” that even tiny amounts of “people input” finished off what stamina she could muster. “Hermit-hood” sounded like heaven on earth to her. However, we could not deny what the Word of God commanded:
“In whom the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” (Eph. 2:21-22)
“That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love…” (Col. 2:2)
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together…” (Heb. 10:25)
By God’s grace, Lianne’s body is healing, and those memories of being overwhelmed are there as gentle reminders that by leaning into the Body of Christ, one’s own burdens can become lighter.
With this realization come hard questions we must ask ourselves, whether missionaries here or abroad. (You do realize that you’re either a missionary or a mission field, right?) Start with these:
* Am I approachable?
* Am I a good listener?
* Am I asking God for HIS heart toward both the lost and the saved?
* Have I asked Him for opportunities to display His love to others?
Ask God to use you to encourage the Body of believers you worship with, and ask Him for a daily opportunity to share His love with an unsaved person!