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Teaching the Value of Global Missions

07.06.2015
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“Love God, Love Others” and, “Go make disciples” are two commands Christ gives us. Daley points us to the value of living missionally on a global scale. Check it out!

“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.” Acts 1:8

When I was in 2nd grade David and Michelle Allen came back to Texas from Bangkok, Thailand on furlough. We invited them to our house for dinner and I listened intently as they told stories describing what it was like living overseas and working with the Thai people.

At the young age of 7, I remember thinking what they were doing was amazing! I loved learning God was the same in Thailand as He is in Texas.

As I grew older, my parents continued to give us opportunities to see other ways God was working throughout the world—as well as be a part of it! In middle school and high school, we went with our church to serve the people in Monterrey, Mexico. Some might say this was just another trip, but for me it was life changing.

Let’s take a look at a few reasons why teaching the value of global missions is imperative:

  1.  Jesus commanded it!  Jesus said, “If you love Me you will obey what I command.” (John 14:15) The Great Commandment is to “Love God and Love Others” (Matt. 22:37-40). This comes first. As we love God and the people around us, we then can carry out the Great Commission: to go and make disciples of ALL nations (Matt. 28:19-20). 
  2. It’s NOT about you. When we teach our children and raise awareness of what is happening in and throughout the world, we reveal to our kids the bigger picture of God’s global mission. Our viewpoint shifts and we can focus on how BIG He is…rather than ourselves. God graciously gives us a new lens in which to view the world as we look outward to others, instead of inward to ourselves.
  3. It’s all about His Kingdom, and His glory! By teaching and allowing our children to be a part of God’s bigger story throughout the world, we teach them that life is about making much of Jesus! The Gospel is for ALL people; for every tribe, nation, and tongue. You don’t have to go to Africa as a missionary to have an impact for the Kingdom. You can be a part of His Kingdom work in your neighborhood or abroad. But we are all called to GO and join Him in sharing the good news. As we live this out in front of our children, we point them to God’s extravagant love, revealing His character and heart for all people, all nations, and the whole world!

Camper Corner—

The world is NOT about you or me. It’s about making much of Jesus. Talk to your parents about current events happening throughout the world. With your family, pick a country and begin praying for the residents of that country to know Jesus. Look for ways to serve and carry out the Great Commandment and Great Commission in your home, at school and with your friends. Ask God, “How and where do You want me to serve?”