A Deeper Look | The Call to Christian Service: Is it for You?

The world presents a myriad of opportunities and paths to pursue, and the question of whether missionary service is the right fit for you is one that requires careful consideration. In this blog post, we will delve into the motivations, prerequisites, and personal alignment necessary for embarking on this significant journey. We will also explore the experiences of Lance Mosher, a missionary who served in New Zealand, to gain insights into the realities of missionary work.

Call to Christian Service: An Overview

Christian service, in its essence, is a response to the calling of Christ to follow Him and to share His love with others. The call to serve as a missionary is an extension of this, where individuals are compelled to leave their familiar surroundings and venture into unknown territories to spread the Gospel and make disciples. It is a commitment to live a life dedicated to the advancement of God's kingdom, often requiring great sacrifice and unwavering perseverance.

Reviewing the Experience of Lance Mosher in New Zealand

To better understand the practical aspects of missionary service, we turn to the experience of Lance Mosher, who served as a missionary in New Zealand. During his time there, Lance was involved in various ministries, including youth outreach, prison outreach, and community development. He faced challenges adjusting to a new culture, language, and way of life, but he also witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the Gospel in the lives of the people he served. His insights provide valuable perspectives on the joys and difficulties of missionary work, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and a deep conviction in God's call.

Factors to Consider Before Embarking on a Missionary Journey

Before embarking on a missionary journey, it is essential to carefully consider several factors that will impact your experience and suitability for such a venture. These include:

1. Motivation:

Examine your reasons for wanting to serve as a missionary. Is it driven by a genuine desire to share the Gospel and serve others, or are there underlying motives that could compromise your effectiveness?

2. Preparedness:

Assess your spiritual maturity, cultural adaptability, emotional resilience, and language proficiency. Missionary service requires a strong foundation in faith, the ability to navigate different cultural contexts, and the capacity to persevere through challenging circumstances.

3. Support System:

Consider your support system, both spiritual and practical. Do you have a network of people who will encourage, pray for, and support you throughout your journey?

Aligning Missionary Service with Personal Goals and Calling

Missionary service should be aligned with your personal goals and calling as a Christian. Ask yourself:

1. Does it align with your passions and abilities?:

Missionary work encompasses a wide range of roles and ministries. Identify areas where your skills, interests, and experience can be effectively utilized.

2. Is it a long-term commitment?:

Missionary service often requires a long-term commitment. Consider your willingness and ability to commit to living and serving abroad for an extended period.

3. Is it where God is calling you?:

Ultimately, the decision of whether to serve as a missionary should be based on your conviction that it is God's calling for your life. Seek guidance through prayer, counsel from trusted mentors, and a thorough examination of your heart and motivations.

Is Missionary Service Right for You?

The decision to pursue missionary service is deeply personal and should not be made lightly. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, praying for guidance, and seeking wise counsel, you can discern if this path aligns with your goals, calling, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Remember that missionary service is a demanding but rewarding journey, one that offers the opportunity to impact lives, advance the Gospel, and glorify Christ in the world.

The call to Christian service, including the specific call to missionary service, is a significant one that requires careful consideration and alignment with your personal goals and calling. Through the example of Lance Mosher's experience in New Zealand and by examining the key factors involved, this blog post has provided guidance for those discerning their call to serve. Whether you are currently exploring missionary service or simply seeking to live a life of purpose and impact, let us remember the words of Christ: "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest" (Matthew 9:37-38). May God guide you as you seek His will for your life and may He continue to raise up laborers for His kingdom.

Listen to the related episode: The Mission Field in New Zealand