Tami’s Meandering Thoughts

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:19-20

A couple of years ago Tim and I did a skit-series during our March for Missions based on the lives of John and Betty Stam, missionaries to China many years ago. I remember the first few weeks – fairly un-remarkable as we established this couple’s vision for missionary work and their dedication to serve God together. However, I will never forget the last skit. We each sat in our own prison “cells” as we wrote letters home. Mine focused on telling my mom and dad that I loved them, that I knew I would be killed, but that serving God was worth it. Then I asked them to please take care of my baby daughter. Real tears almost surfaced as I thought through what Betty must have been feeling as she knew she was leaving her daughter. I had others tell me later that they, too, felt the weight of the moment. In my life am I so willing to follow God no matter where it leads me?

That Sunday we handed out small “covenant cards” with John Stam’s covenant with God. I have mine taped to the front of my Bible. It reads,

“Lord, I give up all my own plans and purposes, all my own desires and hopes, and accept Thy will for my life. I give myself, my life, my all utterly to Thee to be Thine forever. Fill me and seal me with Thy Holy Spirit. Use me as Thou wilt; send me where Thou wilt; work out Thy whole will in my life at any cost, now and forever.”

Am I willing to follow God no matter where it leads me and what it costs me?

This past March for Missions we had someone visit the church to tell about his family’s upcoming “Christian Service” work (I can’t mention names because this is the internet). As I stood next to him and sang our month’s theme song, “Here am I, Lord, I will go, Lord” I began crying because, although I am eager to teach others overseas, and I am even braced for persecution against myself, it is extremely difficult to watch someone (and his family) go to an area where there may be real persecution. I would much rather me go and deal with it myself than to release people I love into that life. Am I willing to follow God and release those I love into His care knowing that hardships may face them?

Well, now you know even a little more of my “heart”! As sisters following the Lord, I hope we can all support each other as we encourage one another to continue following God no matter what the outcome for ourselves or for those around us. Are we willing to follow God no matter where God wants us, no matter what hardships face us? And, are we willing to realize that God has a plan for those we love, our children and other family members that may not be what we would plan for their lives?

FYI - If you do respond to this online, PLEASE don’t mention any names of any particular “Christian Worker” you may know. We don’t want to put anyone’s lives or ministry in jeopardy!