Grace to Serve

A reoccurring theme has been striking me from a number of angles in the past two months as the time for departure draws near. A wise woman summed it up for me one day saying, "Not all who offer themselves are given the privilege of being called. Enjoy every moment." As we have been wrapped up in all the details and visiting with folks it never sunk in deeply the huge privilege it is to serve the Church in this way. There are so many that desire to serve in different capacities in the Church and in mission but for some reason are called to different ministry and works. One calling is not higher than the other but all work together to display the wonderful glory of God. Yet, there still is something striking about that quote. It is only by the grace of God that we are called to serve in this way. Paul says in Ephesians 3:7, "Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power." Ministry of the gospel is never a right. It is a great humbling privilege an act of Grace bestowed by God.

It is a fearful but wonderful thing to be called in this way. I feel completely insignificant. Completely at a loss of how to serve the needs of the Church and the students in Kenya. Thankfully it is God's grace that justifies and redeems. It is God's grace that calls. It is God's grace that transforms lives and peoples. Pray that we would be conduits of the grace of God as we go to Kenya.

By the way it's only 15 days to go...