Missionary Vision

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

At King Road, we have agreed that “Missionary Vision” is one of our preferred values. Missions has been part of the DNA of King Road for the past 44 years, particularly the commitment to cross-cultural missions. Our commitment to local missions also continues to develop as we practically serve our community (thanks to our youth and young adults for leading the way!)

Our definition of “Missionary Vision” reads as follows: We value a bold, enthusiastic vision of reaching all people with the love of Christ at home and among the nations. We will send, serve and go to whomever He has called us. Playing it safe is not attractive to us.

Send, serve, and go. Strong words. Important words. Challenging words. In order to send people, we need finances (thank you for your giving!) We also need to discern God’s call on people and bless/free them to go. At attitude of service is key, lived out in a willingness to get our hands dirty. Going means stepping out in faith. How would you add to these introductory thoughts around the concepts of sending, serving, and going? Join the conversation!

The last line, however, is what I find most challenging: “Playing it safe is not attractive to us.” If I’m honest, playing it safe is easier and more convenient than stepping into the unknown. How committed are we (am I?) to stepping out in faith, to taking a risk for Jesus? Missionary vision is very closely tied into our dependence on God. Our mouths can readily say that playing it safe is not attractive, but now our actions must give credence to this. What will this look like? God knows! Will someone from our congregation go? I truly believe the answer to this is “YES”

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8)