Missionary stories that inspire us to cry “CHARGE” with the
task of the Great Commission are numerous, and they are truly inspiring. But
when the inspiration wears off and we are left with a seemingly impossible
task, where are we to begin?
Last night, a group of students at Northland International
University had an opportunity to hear from a missionary couple going to Central
Asia. These missionaries did talk about their burden for Central Asia, but the
informal gathering for the Cross-Cultural Studies majors was more about
practical steps to get to the field than anything else. Some of the questions
that came up were as follows: “Should I go to seminary or just get to the
field?”; “Should I date someone who does not want to go to the same mission
field I do?”; “Is there anything good about the deputation process?!”
These practical details about being a missionary are what
tend to bog us down and discourage us from the work. We all get excited (and we
should!) when we think about sharing the Gospel, people getting saved, and
planting churches. But there is a more practical side to the work of missions, such
as, “How do I get from where I’m at to the point of sharing, planting, etc.?”
The meeting last night was designed to give practical feet to the inspiring
task of missions—to give future missionaries a framework for getting to the
field.
Life-touching-life doesn’t always mean spiritual advice;
sometimes it means a little help taking the next practical step toward what God
has called you to do. At Northland, this is what we’re about—equipping you to
do what God has placed on your heart. Be it theological foundations, spiritual
guidance, or just practical tips about putting it all in place, we’re here to
help you get there.
The Cross-Cultural Studies curriculum at Northland is honed to
equip missionaries for twenty-first century work. Part of this equipping is
sitting down with ones who have gone before and chatting with them about life
and ministry. These types of meetings have become a regular part of the
educational experience here on campus. Come join us; we’ll learn together!
Sense God’s leading to become a Cross-Cultural
Studies major? Get some practical information by e-mailing us.