note this blog entry is from february 2014 before my trip to dominican republic of congo, africa
Acts 13:2-4
New International Version (NIV)
2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
I have had the privilege to observe and participate in such similar moments of placing hands on those going to serve and sending them off. This week was the first time I have been prayed over and sent off in such a way.
Two sets of groups came around me this week. They placed their hands on me, prayed for me as they sent me off in preparation of my trip to Africa. What a humbling and enriching experience. I have a scarf that was held by one group, so when I wear it I will be reminded of their prayers. I also have a picture of the other group praying for me as a reminder that I can look at.
Going away and being prayed over is a big deal and I thank God for the power of prayer and His saints faithfully remembering me in prayer as I go to Congo. It has occurred to me though that I could have laid my hands on each of these people as well to be sent off in their every day lives.
We all have a mission and challenge to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ. The work we are doing here is just as important as the work being done in other parts of the world. I don't want to exalt missionaries higher than God's call for them. I also don't want to underestimate the work God has already given me and others to do where we are locally.
May we let the Holy Spirit prompt us to seek out those who need to be prayed over and sent off. May we also be willing to be the one sending or the one being sent. Both roles are important and God's work cannot be accomplished without both obeying His direction.
So thank you so much to those who are praying for me and keeping me in mind during my time away. I pray that you and I will both be open to go and do the work God has specifically set aside for us to do.
I have had the privilege to observe and participate in such similar moments of placing hands on those going to serve and sending them off. This week was the first time I have been prayed over and sent off in such a way.
Two sets of groups came around me this week. They placed their hands on me, prayed for me as they sent me off in preparation of my trip to Africa. What a humbling and enriching experience. I have a scarf that was held by one group, so when I wear it I will be reminded of their prayers. I also have a picture of the other group praying for me as a reminder that I can look at.
Going away and being prayed over is a big deal and I thank God for the power of prayer and His saints faithfully remembering me in prayer as I go to Congo. It has occurred to me though that I could have laid my hands on each of these people as well to be sent off in their every day lives.
We all have a mission and challenge to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ. The work we are doing here is just as important as the work being done in other parts of the world. I don't want to exalt missionaries higher than God's call for them. I also don't want to underestimate the work God has already given me and others to do where we are locally.
May we let the Holy Spirit prompt us to seek out those who need to be prayed over and sent off. May we also be willing to be the one sending or the one being sent. Both roles are important and God's work cannot be accomplished without both obeying His direction.
So thank you so much to those who are praying for me and keeping me in mind during my time away. I pray that you and I will both be open to go and do the work God has specifically set aside for us to do.
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