Being Missional

Missional:
This word is floating around books, blogs, and boardrooms. It's being used in titles of new organizations and seminars. I don't want to beat it up or add my drumbeat. But the word popped into my mind last night when I was telling Jim something someone told me that they'd said about me. Here it is in a nutshell -- some of the gals were talking about all of the garbage I've been putting up with from a few of the women here. They were pondering why and how I keep moving forward. My friend, who doesn't understand why I am a follower of Jesus but she just knows that I am, told them, "It's because of her deep faith. I think that she is energized each day because she believes that she is here for a purpose. And she wants to accomplish that purpose. It's like her mission or something." (I think that actually is the word she used.)

I have to remember what that friend said about me. It is true, but I get so lost in the messes sometimes that I forget. If I awoke with a pulse this morning (which I can report that I did) it is because God has something for me to do here on earth this day. Specifically, here in Nigeria this day.

The WHO and the WHY are intricately linked. And more important than the WHERE.

WHO I belong to matters greatly. I belong to Jesus Christ -- the King of kings and Lord of lords. Creator of the universe and creator of my heart. Healer of the broken and sustainer of the weary. My Redeemer. My friend.

The WHY follows. Why am I here? Well, for a variety of reasons I might not ever know. Sometimes it feels like punishment. But usually, when I clear my head, I realize that Jim and I are here for things that we need to receive (learn, grow in, ...) and for things that we need to give (do, be, ...).

So, it's about being missional -- living with the end in mind. Not the end of the project or the end of the day. THE END -- For all eternity. We all are eternal beings and I need to remember that our time in Nigeria could change the destination of many people's lives -- for eternity. If one person can turn toward the same Jesus who is my Savior, King, and friend and call him their Lord, their Savior, their friend ... Well! That's a mission that I accept!