The Urgency of Doing My Part

As I walked into the concert hall, the enormous image of the feared dictator was ascending behind the red curtains. Left behind were beautiful, gauzy curtains used for opera concerts. It was a profound moment. The stage was set for the gospel to be openly preached from inside the Kremlin for the first time in over 70 years. The reign of the dead dictator was over. The cracks in the wall gave way to a glorious celebration of the risen Jesus. 

I was 18 years old. It was my first time leaving my home country. It was my first experience following Jesus to the ends of the earth. Sitting quietly in the dark on a stage behind the curtain, I could hear Dr. Bright telling people in the Palace of Congresses about our beloved Savior. The message was being broadcast via satellite across the U.S.S.R. People were responding in large numbers. My part was small, but it was at that moment that I knew God was calling me to join Him by giving my life to help people know, love, and follow Jesus. I couldn’t imagine anything more compelling. 

Thirty years later, I still feel that way. Of course, it hasn’t always been easy. At 18 years old, I could never have imagined what my life would look like. If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I would tell her, “Yes! Follow Him. It is worth it. It won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it. The lives of people you will see changed by His love are worth it. Jesus is worth it!” 

I never dreamed that God’s plan for me would take me from campus ministry to working with leaders and churches, and eventually digital strategies. In each role, I have had the same mission. I have worked with different audiences around the world, but the focus is the same. 

The calling is the same, the mission is unchanging, and the vision is just as compelling. The world cannot offer anything that will compare to the abundant life and sure hope found in Jesus Christ alone. 

The darkness is thick, times are uncertain, and humans are vulnerable to deception, destruction, and death. But God is greater. His Great Commission will be accomplished.

You have an essential part to play in His Great Commission. We have important work to do. Do not lose heart. I want to tell you what I told myself, “Yes! Follow Him. It is worth it. It won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it. The lives of people you will see changed by His love are worth it. Jesus is worth it!”