Tag: mission to lost people
Week 7–Day 1–Learning the Ropes!
Scripture reading for February 9: Mark 3:13-15 “And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those whom He desired, and they came to Him. And He appointed twelve (whom He also named apostles) so that they might be with Him and He might send them out to preach and have authority over demons.”
When we volunteer or are hired to fill a position as a first responder, we automatically understand that part of the job is continuous training to sharpen our skills and develop teamwork and relationships. We may take required classes from a school or college or on-line. Where I volunteer at my local fire department we also have regular monthly training and special week end training events that enable us to simulate emergency situations and go over proper procedures and learn to use the tools we have to perform rescues, put out fires, work with wrecks and go on medical calls. Although we are volunteers, we want to respond with proficiency and excellence.
Jesus Christ studied those around Him and knew each person and their giftings and talents. He also knew their weaknesses and what they needed training in. As a Master Teacher, Jesus used an invitation to those whom He desired to follow Him. He wanted them to be with Him and observe His attitudes, actions, and gifts in action. He wanted them to see His mission to reach lost and hurting people walked out in the countryside, villages, and cities of their land. He desired to spend time with them and teach them the Word of God. He loved asking them questions to help them think. He told them stories (parables) and invited them to enter into the stories and learn God’s ways. (Mark 4:1-3)
Jesus’ goal was to multiply workers who would adopt His mission and carry His love for the lost. This was best learned through relationships. Questions and stories opened hearts and minds to make the needed changes and additions to skills and attitudes that would bring proficiency and lead to reaching those lost and hurting.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for taking time to invest in each person by calling them to spend time with You and teaching us the ‘ropes’ of following Jesus. Help me to set aside time each day to learn Your will and ways through reading Your Word and gathering with Your people. I want to be excellent in my calling! Amen.