Whether we realize it or not, we are living in a nation that has drastically changed these past few years. For those of us who have taken notice, we are mourning the loss of our great nation. One of our biggest challenges is the massive influx of foreigners into our communities across the nation. With this in mind, a question that I now ask myself, “Is God bringing the mission field to America?”
Whether we agree or not with this large influx of people, it is a reality. This can be a conflicting issue for many of us because we are all children of foreigners at some point in our family lineage.
Of course, as we can see in today’s world, the big difference is that many foreigners are encouraging murder, and also conquest of our nation. This is serious stuff when one considers all that is at stake. And let’s be honest, this can instill fear in the most ardent sincere followers of Christ.
“For Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God with Thy blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9b).
First, let’s begin with what we know. God died on the cross for every one. Also, according to the Bible, the only kingdom that is everlasting is God’s kingdom (Psalm 145:13a), not the “good old U.S.A”. Lastly, God’s purposes cannot be thwarted if He is setting the stage for the end of the age (“I know that Thou canst do all things, and that no purpose of Thine can be thwarted” – Job 42:2).
Therefore, since we as a nation are faced with such obstacles, the question that we now have to ponder is what do we Christians do? And where do we fit into the scheme of things?
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
This is a command for all of us. Now there are those who are called to fill stadiums, or travel to distant lands. But for most of us the command to “go,” means wherever we are going; work, school, the gym, the store, etc.
Now if the mission field is coming here in droves, let’s ask ourselves what would Jesus do? Remember the book by Charles Sheldon, “In His Steps?” The theme of this story is concerned with the idea “what would Jesus do” in every event or affair of life.
“The Samaritan woman therefore said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) (John 4:9)
It’s necessary to take a look at what Jesus did to gain some insight into what we should do. He was not concerned about the fact that she was a Samaritan (Jews and Samaritans had no dealings), or a woman (it was not acceptable for a Rabbi to speak to a woman in public).
It is important to note that there was tension between the Jews and the Samaritans. As a result, the Jews avoided the Samaritans at all costs. They wouldn’t even travel that way, that is not until Jesus came onto the scene.
Thus, if we follow the example of Jesus and the Samaritan woman, we can put aside our preconceived notions and even personal feelings. The disciples of Jesus struggled with thoughts and feelings themselves. Remember how they were astonished that He was speaking to the Samaritan woman? But they kept quiet (John 4:27) and waited. Next, the results of this one conversation with the Samaritan woman; many in that city believed in Him (John 4:39).
In contrast we need to follow Jesus’ example. We can meet a person right where they are and engage them in a conversation as Jesus demonstrated with the woman at the well. When Jesus revealed to the Samaritan woman her need for salvation, she responded. We can do the same.
The end results will vary, we may just plant a seed (one sows, and another reaps – John 4:37b), or we may lead others to Christ. Then again we can build relationships with others as we share what God has done for us, then in God’s timing they may turn their hearts to Christ.
“Behold, I say unto you, lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest” (John 4:35b). Let’s turn our focus on the mission field.
Now as it turns out, the mission field has come to America, and this trend will probably continue. The harvest is ready. Perhaps we need to go out and pick it. As Solomon declared in the Proverbs, “He who is wise wins souls” (Proverbs 11:30b).
Indeed the harvest is here.
Great article and insight as usual.
Amen, thank you dear sister.
Now that the mission field is here, we need to pray that the Lord gives us courage , compassion, and boldness to share His love, and the Good News that was also preached to us.
Thanks for sharing this insight Aida.