Scripture

Our verse for today comes from Philippians 1:29, ” For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. “

Background

In the business world, it’s all too common to have meetings. And for those who have them on any sort of a regular basis, it’s also common for them to consider that time spent as the least productive of the day. But in spite of the overwhelming amount of time spent in meetings, there are times when they are extremely beneficial. One of those times is following the conclusion of a project, when all of the team members gather and talk over the successes and failures, challenges and shortfalls, and highs and lows of the endeavor. Our team returned recently from our mission trip to Haiti. And although we have not shared our thoughts yet with one another regarding the trip, it’s not too difficult for me individually to consider a few items from the mission.

Application

First, Haiti is hot. And the heat is relentless and intense. It requires a certain mindset to accept and deal with the fact of always being wet and sweaty. However, when the storms would roll in over the mountains and pour out the rain on us in the afternoon, the refreshment was such a godsend that you appreciated even more the provisions and grace that God would send your way. Also, Haiti is poor. It’s the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. To say that most people there have nothing would be putting it nicely. But where there is need, there are also God’s people. And what they offer is hope and purpose through Jesus Christ, two things needed more in Haiti than money and resources. And Haiti is dark. Not only in the lovely, rich, deep chocolate skin complexion of its precious inhabitants, but more so in its belief in and fear of evil spirits and voodoo. Those familiar with Jesus or the Cross can struggle to separate Christ and the Holy Spirit from the hocus pocus that is spread to keep the locals in fear and bondage. But God has called, and is calling, His faithful to reach the unreachable. Where sin abounds, grace will much more abound. God bless Haiti, perhaps through you and me.

Charge

As we seek Him today, begin your mission trip in the paths you will walk down. If the old passed away for you, then use the new to fulfill its higher purpose.