We usually think of missionaries as folk who go to some distant location. I think that anyone who follows Christ is called to be a missionary- one who shares the love of God in word and deed. Aren't we all sent on mission as we follow the Son of God?
It is an honor to work with a number of local missionaries. That's not their official title, and they may not even call themselves that, but they are influential in the Kingdom, the Augusta community, and the Church as they meet needs and share the love of God. During the last couple of weeks I've been "making the rounds" introducing the local outreach leader from our church to some of our major local mission partners. We haven't made it to everyone just yet, but it's already proven to be a great exercise and wonderful way to catch up with some local missionaries and encourage them to continue in their good work despite the challenges.
So, today I'm thankful for the local missionaries! I've met with and relied on everyone in the list below during the last couple of weeks. Some folk in my prayers today are:
-Rick Herring, Augusta Urban Ministries
-FROGs- that's a group of retired guys from my church who do construction work in town for the church and for many nonprofit groups
-Mike Firmin, Golden Harvest Food Bank
-Amy Breitman, Goodwill
-Sarah McDonald, Interfaith Hospitality Network of Augusta
-Millicent West, New Bethlehem Community Center
-Marsha Jones, St. Luke UMC
-Thurman Norville, United Methodist Children's Home/Augusta
-YOU!
You couldn't ask for a better group of co-conspirators for the great work of the Kingdom! Of course, there is always room for one more in local mission.
How are you doing in local mission? Who's on your prayer list as you give thanks for the local missionaries?
1 comment:
A welcome reminder that mission is not only across the ocean, but all around. We are hosting Pamela Perkins from the Interfaith Children's Movement today--I am thankful for her witness in metro Atlanta!
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