Missionaries are Jesus' Ambassadors

In his book, 100 Portraits of Christ, Henry Gariepy tells the story of Teddy Roosevelt boarding ship at an African port after a hunting safari. The red carpet was rolled out and great crowds gathered to send him off. He was given the best suite on board the ship and was the center of attention during the sail home. At the same time, there was another man on board ship. He was an old missionary who had given his life for God in Africa. His wife had died. His children were gone. He sailed home alone. Unnoticed. At the ship’s arrival in San Francisco, the President was again feted as whistles blew, bells rang, and crowds cheered as Roosevelt disembarked in pomp and glory. But there was no one there to meet the missionary. He went to a small hotel room and that night, kneeling by his bed he prayed, “I’m not complaining, Lord. But I just don’t understand. I gave my life for You in Africa and it seems that no one cares. I just don’t understand.” And then it seemed in that moment the Lord reached down His hand from heaven and placing it on the old man’s shoulder, said, “Missionary, you’re not home yet.”

If I go and prepare a place for you,I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am. --John 14:3

For those of us living in North America, having a missionary mindset is difficult, because the things that are rewarded here, are not the things which a missionary pursues:

-Peace vs Prosperity
Love vs Power
-Godliness vs Health

Ask God how you can treat His full-time workers in a way that will honour them as His ambassadors. Be creative! Sometimes all that is needed is a listening ear. A cup of coffee with a friend. Other times they may need something more practical, such as a car for their season of furlough, or a season's pass to the Family Acquatic Centre, or even a trip to the dentist.

Is there something God has given you, a talent or trade, that you can bless a missionary or your pastor with today?