It’s All The Same

                Okay so the title might sound confusing, allow me to explain. I am talking about people all around the world. There are basic needs that you cannot deny everywhere: food, water, shelter, clothing, and LOVE. I just got out of a team meeting where we discussed the stark contrast of the United States and other parts of the world. Obviously the United States is a wealthier place than the parts of the world I am currently in and visiting, but beyond that the United States is full of people that need exactly the same things as the people here in the Philippines. So why then is ministry so easy here and so much harder at home?
                We got our conversation started by talking about how hard it will be to go home. The difficulties that will come with merging back into a wealthier life style, being with friends that have been at school, and living at home again. We got to talking about what it will look like to go home and do “ministry” everyday like we are now. Yes, we now know the language and the culture but does that really make it easier? No, not at all. It means not letting our comfort zone distract from the fact that there is work to be done and people that need to know the love of Christ. What the United States lacks in poverty, financial instability, and lack of basic education it makes up for in the prevalent greed, slander, and loneliness. There is just as much of a mission field at home as there is anywhere else in the world. It is harder in the United States though, and I think that is largely due to the fact that there aren’t many needs to fill. When you have a need to fill it makes it so much easier to then start sharing about the love of Christ because you just got done showing it in an action. (moving your faith into action James) At least not many that meet the eye. Although many needs such as food, water, shelter, and clothing are met there is a major lack in love, time spent on others, and a feeling of self-worth. Not that Americans are unloving people, but I think so many times in our culture people are so concerned with themselves, what they look like, being put together, and financially stable that they miss opportunities to show others that they are cared about and loved. If you have ever felt lonely or unloved than you know how it is the worst feeling in the world, let that sink in and push you to action. Everyone is loved by Christ and deserves to feel it. I believe God wants to use us to make that happen, to make people feel his love.
                I am talking about random acts of kindness people. It doesn’t matter if people already have everything that they NEED. When you go out of your way to show somebody else that you care for them you would be amazed at the reactions you get and the doors it can open. Here is an example or two. You could buy a cup of coffee and give it to a person you see often (like a homeless person, teacher, friend, or security guard.) You could make some breakfast burritos and then go on a bike ride to give them to homeless people you see. You could go to a soup kitchen and volunteer. The opportunities really are endless. There are a few keys to this though…
 

1. Be persistent – some people might not be grateful or receptive the first few times
2. Get out of your comfort zone – actually talk to people
3. Pray – pray before you do whatever you’re going to do and after.

 
     There is so many people to minister to in the United States and I think many times it just starts with showing that you care, listening, and giving something small. It is the spark that starts the FIRE. How cool it is to start a fire that is burning for Jesus, its sole purpose to spread his love and aroma everywhere we go. The power in showing Jesus in our loving actions is UNSTOPABLE. The only question is will you be bold enough, in this life we only get to live once, to be the one to start the chain reaction?