Through prayer, I’ve committed to serving God as a volunteer pastor-at-large at Asia Pacific Theological Seminary in Baguio, Philippines. A pastor-at-large refers to offering pastoral encouragement, mentoring/counseling to all the seminar students, faculty and the president there. Surprised? If so, I am as well. I never dreamed I would serve on the mission field. And considering my age and being a widower, I enter this role, expecting it to be a high risk in multiple areas. I wonder if Caleb, at 85 years of age, had similar feelings when he requested of Joshua to give him for his inheritance, Mount Hebron, where there a strategic city was located. When Caleb made that request, Hebron had been a stronghold of the Palestinians for decades. No doubt it was a much higher risk for him, but not really because God was with him.
This last trimester, APTS had students from at least 38 different Asia Pacific nations. Many were pastors and national church leaders seeking to get their post-graduate degrees. I have prayed to God for decades that He give me the nations for my inheritance. (Psalm 2:8) It has occurred to me that this may be His answer to my prayers.
However, while this is a mission for certain, this is not what is most important to me. More important than ANYTHING else is that I take on far more of the character, purpose, thinking, and unwavering love that Jesus had for His Father. To me, this God-ordained assignment is simply an expression of my relentless commitment to Him. My favorite verse, is already on our tombstone, is “…my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” Acts 20:24 (NLT2)
All other spiritual pursuits are secondary to becoming Jesus’ apprentice. A genuine apprenticeship or discipleship isn’t simply a few classes, thrilling experiences, a social cause, or theological knowledge. It has a sharply defined purpose. That purpose being the full ‘experiential knowledge’ (such as when Adam knew Eve, and she conceived) of Jesus Christ. (Eph 4:13) Reaching the fullness of Christ is a lifelong process, not achievable in one lifetime. God does not expect a person to attain such an impossible feat. But He does desire a heart that continues to pant for the spiritual water brooks. My aim is not to set out on a mission for the kingdom of God. Instead, it focuses on progressively adopting God’s perspective, imitating the love Jesus showed the Father, His personality, and His ways.
My intention for this mission is not to seek validation. My goal, however, is to motivate others to seek God, adapting their approach to their unique circumstances, calling, and age. The process of becoming Christlike is a journey that lasts a lifetime. “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” Hebrews 10:24 (NLT2)
Do you believe God smiles at your of your zealous efforts to emulate Jesus? If not, what comes to mind that would bring His joy and empowerment.
What an awesome charge God has given you!
I know you will fulfill it with all of your might!
MY The Lord be glorified thru your efforts.