3/16

The Lord is teaching me the art of being passionate with where I’m at. Although my heart wants to be back in Boston, He is reminding me of the work that is still left to do in Tallahassee. Tonight as I prayed for short rounds and a talkative Night staff to pass the time (keeping up a conversation with a stranger is hard to do for half an hour), the Lord faithfully gave me what I asked for.  

For half an hour, I was able to spend time with a not so fond of Christians, Chinese and Buddhist studies major, originally from Boston. As I walked and listened to my new friend, I also couldn’t help but marvel at God’s sovereignty and love for people.

A few days ago the mission had been to share the hope we have with people in Boston. Now the mission was to love a college student in Tallahassee.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Witnessing to the ends of the earth means being faithful and present now. As God has been reminding me in Exodus, he goes before and behind us. God promises to give us grace and direction as we move. 

In Boston as we rode public transportation each day, it was easy to just put in headphones or talk to friends from our group. It wasn't until a few days into the trip that God reminded me of something that was said before we started: to "redeem my time" as I traveled. As I thought of it more and more, I realized how wasteful it would be to not make use of every opportunity in Boston. The travel time was just as important as planned projects and ministry. To neglect to pray and talk with the people around me just because I was waiting until I get off the bus to do so is just unwise.

"Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.…"

Ephesians 5:16

This mindset of  redeeming our time as we travel doesn't just apply to organized missions trip, but to the entirety of our time here on earth. How different would our days look if we lived less like we were on vacation and more like we were on mission?