Why Invest in Missions?
by Mark Vernon, missionary aviator
THE "GRASS ROOTS" answer to this question is, after all, pretty basic. If we name the Name of Christ, then the Great Commission and the responsibility to invest in the Kingdom applies to us. Actually, there are no alternatives or options other than to commit unconditionally to investing.
To quote Oswald Chambers,"The work of obedience is the evidence that the Spirit of God is in me."
Each generation is presented with its unique and fleeting window of opportunity for service to a particular geographical location. These "open doors" of opportunity should be a tremendous investment for the Kingdom of God.
I have witnessed these opportunities as doors of service were opened and also witnessed the obedience of dedicated men and women as they invested their ALL in missions. Some were young and just out of college while others were retirement age, but all were willing servants who wanted to see others experience the same deliverance they found in Jesus Christ. Many were not preachers or school teachers, just laborers with a burden and desire to do their part in investing in the Kingdom.
Many of those who invested in missions were active behind the scenes providing support with their giving and keeping the ministry strong with daily prayers. It was team work!
While in Vietnam, much of my flight time was spent resupplying the troops who were bearing the "brunt of the battle." As a team, we all wore the same uniform and fought under the same flag but had different responsibilities. We were protecting our "investment" of freedom. This closely paralleled to my flying for missions. It was an investment of a team working to fulfill the Great Commission.
To invest in missions is to reap rewards from a merciful God Who takes notice of all our endeavors, and He is not slack concerning His promises.
One return on my investment is a son in Africa, at this time, investing in missions!
