I will be leaving very soon to spend a couple of weeks in the Philippines. From the first moment the trip was mentioned, I automatically wanted to go. My pastor looked at me in complete disbelief when I told him I wanted to partake in the adventure. As he looked at me in disbelief, I too, looked back at him in disbelief that he would even assume that I wouldn't be the type to go. I can't lie; I was a bit appalled by his reaction, but what can you do?! His assumption of me was wrong, but I can understand why he thought the way he did. Afterall, I do like for my clothes to be ironed, hair to be pretty much perfect, and makeup done; however, my desire to serve God is much stronger than my outward appearance. Once he got past his initial shock, excitement hit his face. He was so excited to see people actually interested in going and doing something for God's glory.
I knew the trip would cost money-money that I did not have on my own. God would have to provide...and He did! He always supplies every need! I sent out letters to people requesting assistance, and they gave sacrificially. I was so amazed by how God was constantly confirming His call upon my life for this trip. I love watching His plan unfold in the lives of His children.
I went home this past weekend, and everyone was asking me when I was leaving, what I would be doing, how long I would be staying, etc. Everyone was excited for me and very supportive, but you know that there is always going to be someone who will try to put a damper on God's glory because of his lack of vision. This particular church member came up to me asking me when I was leaving, and I told him. He then proceeded to say, "Alright...Well, I hope you don't get kidnapped." I'm not going to lie...I was a bit hacked at his audacity to say such a thing, so I quickly retorted, "Even if I do, I'll be fine." I said that in hopes that it would end the ridiculous conversation, but he clearly wanted the last word. He said, "What? You think they'd give you back?" He said that with laughter behind it showing such arrogance!! By this time, I'm really getting annoyed, so I said, "Even if they wouldn't, I know I'd be in the center of God's will, so it really doesn't matter." With a look of shock that I would even say such a thing, he said, "Well, I guess that's the way to look at it." I looked at him, never batting an eye, and said, "It's the only way to look at it." He finally conceded, semi-smiled, and walked away.
As I thought about that conversation, I realized that this is the vision of so many Christians today...a lack of any vision at all. They want to keep their social club and cliques in the church, never reaching out into the community. Such attitudes of arrogance penetrate the church, paralyzing any potential they may have in reaching their communities, surrounding areas, and the world for Christ. They're too concerned about what the building looks like and what their personal appearances look like and aren't concerned at all about the poor man who can barely make ends meet or the teenager who knows right from wrong, but chooses wrong because it's easy. They judge those who look and act differently than they do because they're too afraid of accepting and loving them will cause too big of a stir...too much of a change. It's fear and laziness at it's worst. They worship a building, instead of worshipping the One who provided it. They act like they're perfect because they don't drink and condemn the alcoholic to whom they never offer a hand of aid. What will it take for those who have been so lackadaisical with their relationship with Christ to awaken and see the desires of His heart...not their hearts?
We must pray and pray hard. An awakening needs to take place, and God needs to receive the glory for it.
